Actress and model Elizabeth Hurley is a style icon for many women around the world. The 52-year-old has appeared on the front cover of British Vogue five times as well as Harper’s Bazaar, GQ, Esquire, Elle, Vanity Fair and Tatler.
Elizabeth, who starred as Vanessa Kensington in Mike Myers’ hit spy comedy, Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, launched her own luxury beachwear line at Harrods back in 2005. The brand has since gone from strength to strength and is now regarded by many as one of the leading beachwear ranges in the premium sector.
The star of the E! original series The Royals has an obsession with beachwear, which she credits in part to growing up in rainy England where she never leaves the house without an umbrella. Elizabeth is involved in every aspect of the business from design through to manufacture and marketing.
We sat down with Elizabeth to find out a little more about the luxury swimwear brand the whole world is currently talking about.
Tell us about Elizabeth Hurley Beach
I decided to venture into designing beachwear not only because I’ve always been obsessed with holiday clothes, but also because it’s an area where women, regardless of shape or size, can either look amazing or really get it wrong. I wanted to create styles that make people look fantastic and feel great. It was key to me to create a resort collection which would make a woman feel sexy and comfortable at any age.
Having found fame as an actress and model, why did you decide to design swimwear?
I started my beachwear line when my son was young, as I wanted to be able to work from home and travel less. I took an eight year sabbatical from filming so when I put my toe back in the water, it was a miracle I got some good offers. I did a season of Gossip Girl and have just wrapped Season 4 of The Royals – but the beachwear is still going strong and I feel very blessed that I’m able to do both.
From where do you take inspiration for your collections?
I love tousled hair, glowing skin, and sensual clothes. I love women looking glamorous, and this is my main focus. On the beach, this can be more difficult; sun and sand are an important part of a summer holiday, so I place a big emphasis on creating pieces that are light, comfortable, and flattering.
What was the inspiration behind your new line?
The 17/18 Cruise Collection is relaxed and floaty, with classic swimwear styles such as the Elizabeth Hurley Beach signature triangle bikinis, and bejewelled kaftans in luxury prints. It’s very eye-catching.
What advice would you give to women on how to look good in a bikini?
Most women dread bikini season and there really is no need. You don’t have to be stick-thin to look and feel fabulous on the beach. Confidence is key; any woman who is comfortable in herself will always look great. Of course, there are a few things you can do to make it less painful. I always feel better tanned and buy a big bottle of self-action tanner and anoint myself for a week or two before braving the beach. I like light fabrics that fly around in the breeze. Most women feel ok lying flat but often feel self-conscious walking around in a bikini; the sarong or kaftan is the perfect solution. You can hide your tummy, your bottom or your legs; whatever it is bothering you can be concealed under a flippy layer of pretty chiffon and no one is any the wiser.
