Deborah Fiddy, the founder of Gingerlily, was born in the West Indies and moved to the UK as a teenager. After working as an in-house lawyer for Harrods, Deborah founded Gingerlily in 2004. Inspired by the scarcity of high-quality silk bedding in the UK market, Gingerlily quickly gained popularity and expanded its collection. The brand’s products are now available in leading department stores and specialized retailers worldwide. Deborah’s personal connection to the West Indies shapes her work at Gingerlily, incorporating her upbringing and experiences into the brand. Learn more about Deborah and her linens in today’s Maker Monday.
The Eva white silk duvet cover is made from 100% pure white mulberry silk and showcases a sophisticated diamond trellis pattern, exuding timeless elegance in any bedroom.
Andrew Joseph: What is something you hope to see trending in design in the future?
Deborah Fiddy: The interest in preloved and vintage design has been gaining ground for many years now, which is something I personally champion, and I hope to see this translate to more green purchasing across the industry. This shift will hopefully hold more companies accountable for creating and implementing sustainable business practices – not only in their external marketing efforts, but also integrating them into the brand’s DNA.
AJ: What’s something you always travel with?
DF: Since founding Gingerlily nearly 20 years ago, I’m always sure to pack one of our silk-filled boudoir pillows, a separate silk pillowcase and eye mask when I travel, as well as my favorite earplugs and a good book. The comfortable quality and innate luxury of pure silk are truly unmatched, especially when compared to the synthetic, coarser options found onboard even the most luxurious carriers and in the most lavish of hotels.
Traveling with silk accessories, especially on long-haul flights, really helps combat the unwelcomed side effects of travel like dull, dry skin and breakouts, and helps me feel fresh and well-rested when I arrive at my destination.
At the core of Gingerlily’s signature collection of neutral colorways lies the timeless ivory shade, which is synonymous with the brand. Crafted from the highest quality pure long strand mulberry silk, it embodies sophistication and luxury.
AJ: What was your first job?
DF: While I was training to be a lawyer, I had a part-time job as a secret shopper for Harrods in London. This involved going to designated departments and purchasing items to review the shopping experience from a customer’s point of view. Once I received my degree I applied to work for Harrods’ in-house legal department and got the job, which ultimately led to me working on the then-Chairman’s legal team for 8 years. It is such a thrill for me to now be selling our products in Harrods, a beacon of luxury design, and feels like I’ve truly come full circle, of which I’m incredibly proud!
AJ: How would you describe your personal style?
DF: I am quite consistent in my personal style. Life is busy and can be quite chaotic at times, so as a result, my style – in both clothing and home decor – is simple and streamlined, which I find calming. I tend to dress in solid colors and incorporate statement jewelry and accessories; a style that is mirrored within my home, which features a monochromatic color palette broken up with different materials and accessories that add pops of color. The objects I’ve collected throughout the years help bring texture and flair, not to mention a lot of joy!
AJ: How would you define your work in three words?
DF: Considered, exciting and worthwhile.
Inspired by an intricate 18th-century English print, Richard’s Tangleweed Blue pattern captures the fluidity and grace of underwater plants.
AJ: Must-have clothing item everyone should have in their closet?
DF: A classic navy jumper! Navy is such an elegant color, far more so than black which is all too ubiquitous, in my opinion, and instantly elevates an outfit.
AJ: Favorite tea to decompress, and in what mug?
DF: I take tea very seriously as the British tend to do! In the morning until midday, I drink English breakfast tea with a dash of milk, and from then on, I drink green tea. I once had to keep a diary of how many hot drinks I had throughout the day and was horrified by how many I consumed, but I’m ultimately a creature of habit! At home, I always drink from a T.G Green Cornishware blue and white mug that reminds me of various family holidays to Cornwall in England, and in the office, I’ll have my tea in a Bloomingdale’s Medium Brown Bag mug!
About the Maker | Deborah is a dynamic thought leader, entrepreneurial business owner and specialists in silk who’s successfully elevated Gingerlily beyond just your average bedding brand by staying true to her founding ethos of designing and producing the highest quality products using only the best possible materials. Designed exclusively in London, Gingerlily products are crafted using the finest long strand mulberry silk and feature subtle detailing, stencil printed designs, and more, bringing a fresh touch and luxurious comfort to any interior. Appealing to the discerning international customer, Gingerlily’s reputation quickly grew and is now present in leading department stores, specialty retailers, and independent boutiques in over 24 countries worldwide.
Having been in business for nearly 20 years, Deborah has extensive experience in growing an international luxury brand and a wealth of knowledge to offer when it comes to silk, including the beauty & health/wellness benefits, why silk bedding is best, silk care, design trends, and more.
Like what you see? Get it first with a subscription to aspire design and home magazine.