Not often, in the course of research, does someone say to you, ‘Sorry if I have to answer the phone – I’m expecting a call from Shirley Bassey.’ I loved the line so much I borrowed it. I owe a big debt of gratitude to the legendary Don Black, who was charm and courtesy itself, and helped a lot.
Kasia Steyn, Ivan Dubovsky and Alison Clayton-Smith thought they were meeting me for yoga or coffee, but ended up giving me some great insights for the book. That’s what happens when your friend turns into a writer. Sorry, and thanks.
Emily and Sophie knew what they were letting themselves in for: a research trip with me to New York. It was a tough job, but somebody had to do it. Ann Ceprynski helped as ever, by suggesting cool places to go. Siobhán McGowan and the team at Scholastic made us feel so welcome when we got there. Felicity Pett didn’t come, but told me about the polar bears. Freddie and Tom also didn’t come, but wanted to. I owe you. I know.
Jewel Simpfendorfer designed the cover dress and lent us her sample for the shoot. Thanks, Jewel! I still love it as much as I ever did. And thanks to Steve Wells for my lovely cover.
As always, I owe big thanks to Barry, Rachel, Imogen, Nicki and the rest of the Chicken House team. And to Caroline at Christopher Little, who knows the best coffee joints.
Rachel McHale and Jane Ward – thanks for your support. I hope you like the results.
Darling E. Thank you for everything. I couldn’t do it without you.
And finally, CJ Skuse, who waited. You know what for. I hope you’re happy now.
Two books were very useful and regularly referred to: one new, one old. The new one was ‘How to set up & run a fashion label’ by Toby Meadows. The old one, which I’ve had for years, is ‘The Queen’s Clothes’, by Anne Edwards, illustrated by Robb.