Lou Brennan graduated in textile design just before the fashion world underwent a massive change from analogue to digital. For many years, it didn’t matter: she worked for Alexander McQueen and John Rocha, and sold designs to Donna Karan, Giorgio Armani and Dolce & Gabbana.

But having kids widened the skills gap further. When the time came to re-enter the fashion workforce, Lou had a mountain to climb.