They've got bags of style

Want a bag like no other? These three Berkshire women can help

- Sarah Rodi

Claire Greenwood

Founder, GVG Accessories

“I have loved accessories from a young age. I had a bag for every occasion and my family called me ‘the bag lady’,” says Claire Greenwood, Founder of GVG Accessories in Eton.

Claire’s handbag obsession continued as she grew up, and after graduating from Manchester Metropolitan University with a degree in Retail Marketing and an MSc in Fashion Buying, she joined Primark’s head office in Reading as a Trainee Buyer.

“I lived in Reading for five years and then moved to Eton 12 months ago,” she says. “I’m lucky to live in such a beautiful area. Eton has a wonderful village community, from the independent shops to the pubs and restaurants. Everyone chats to each other and all the small businesses support each other.”

Claire went on to become an International Assistant Buyer at Primark and travelled the world, including the Far East and India, to develop new ranges for the UK and European stores. But in 2019, she decided to start her own brand.

“I had a few difficult years during which I struggled with PTSD and depression. As part of my treatment, I ran the Reading Half Marathon for local charity Daisy’s Dream, who support children through bereavement and grief. Being able to give back to charity gave me a sense of purpose and fulfilment again,” says Claire. “I wanted to develop a business that incorporated my love of fashion and accessories but also had an element of giving back to charities and so GVG was born. GVG stands for giving.”