the Harper’s Bazaar International Women’s Day Gala

I'm so lucky to have grown up with wonderful women who taught me to use my voice, who inspired me and still do. Now I have the privilege of surrounding myself with incredible women from all walks of life who are forging their own paths and changing the world in their own way.

This International Women's Day I wanted to take the opportunity to celebrate the women in my life, be it my family, friends, brides, our amazing stockists, or my wonderful Halfpennys. They inspire me, daily and make me proud to be a woman.

Speaking of which, allow me to pass you over to one such wonderful woman: our MD and head of the Halfpennys, Jessica Okotan. Our friends at Clé de Peau Beauté invited members of the Halfpenny team to join them at the Harper’s Bazaar International Women’s Day Gala this year. Sadly, I couldn’t make it but Jessica had a wonderful time and, below, she shares her experience of an inspiring event, surrounded by exceptional women. (You may be wondering and, yes, Jessica is the original Okotan bride! See more from her beautiful wedding here.)

Women have accomplished so much, yet there is still work to be done and we must continue to speak up, and show up for our sisters until there is a level playing field. Happy International Women’s Day!

Love,

Kate xxx

Jessica Okotan, Halfpenny London MD:

“The event was a real highlight for the year. Sitting amongst fabulous women and hearing from women across different fields, it was so inspiring to be in their company. Guests were treated to thought-provoking, uplifting conversations from Prize Winning author Naomi Alderman, Shadow Economic Secretary to the Treasury Tulip Siddiq, and BAFTA winning actress Aimee Lou Wood.

“Naomi Alderman was funny, bold and uplifting. She has a clear message of inclusivity and gender equality. I particularly loved when she said that women don’t need to be better than men, but we certainly deserve to be equal. Sometimes the conversation over women empowerment can become berating, but she said it so well. Although we work in a team of women and then gender pay gap isn’t relevant to us, it is something I have been pondering a lot recently. I must admit, I haven’t read Naomi’s work before, however I have her latest book The Power in the post to read this weekend. She also referenced Esther in the bible and the famous story of “for such a time as this” about how despite hard circumstances and things that don’t make sense, we are planned and purposed for the moments in which we are living. This, in particular, has resonated with me since.

“Tulip Siddiq is an amazing woman who shared some information about her career, the extreme challenges of politics and motherhood, and she spoke very humbly about how change has been seen during her time, like the proxy vote. She spoke beautifully about the women who have fought long and hard before her time, and the reward of seeing change brought to a system that is often outdated. Tulip gave an insight into how women are represented well as MP’s, but that there is a real lack in areas of decision making on the teams of the speaker, the chief whip, etc. She has an unrelenting passion and dedication which was inspiring and motivating. I was particularly inspired hearing about her experience with Naznin Zahari-Ratcliffe, who was also in attendance, being one of her constituants and the journey to fight for her release. I enjoyed hearing about the political parties working together on this particular case. She was infectious and had me considering the needs of being a politician and the constant battle of representation. 

“Finally, Aimee Lou Wood was candid about her self discovery and the women who have helped shape her in an industry that can be brutal towards body image and beauty standards. She had some beautiful messages of encouragement and positivity for self-respect and self-worth which, as women, we can often put to the side.

“I had a wonderful time and left feeling uplifted, inspired and energised by the speakers and my fellow guests. Thank you to Harper’s Bazaar and Clé de Peau Beauté for such a fabulous night. The cherry on top was that I was wearing some favourite pieces from the Halfpenny London collection too!”

Jessica Okotan is the Managing Director of Halfpenny London. Hailing from Australia, Jessica studied Fashion after high school and, dreaming of a career as a costume designer and maker, worked for multiple fashion brands before joining Halfpenny London in early 2015. Jessica has a passion for business, female-focussed fashion, and delivering expert quality. Working for Halfpenny London, she finds particular joy in the collaborative and original workings of the atelier, creating the most stunning, high quality gowns that make women feel both comfortable and elevated. She and her husband live in South East London with their two cats. They enjoy good food, travel and of course a good outfit.