Discover Tiffany's story behind setting up the UK's first allergy-friendly lingerie brand.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and describe your current business.
Hello! I’m Tiffany, founder of JulieMay Lingerie, the UK’s first allergy-friendly lingerie brand. We create dermatologist-certified, organic underwear that eases discomfort from conditions like eczema, contact dermatitis, and sensitivities that often affect women after menopause or surgeries.
My entrepreneurial journey began with a single step: helping my mother find comfortable, irritation-free clothing. Since then, JulieMay has grown into a multi-award-winning company dedicated to health, inclusivity, and sustainable change in the lingerie industry.
How did you come up with the idea, and what problem does it address?
JulieMay came from a desire to help women with skin-related challenges. The brand idea took root when my mother’s own skin issues made me realize a gap in the market for allergy-friendly lingerie.
JulieMay provides safe, hypoallergenic options crafted from organic Pima cotton, free from latex, harsh chemicals, and synthetic materials. Our mission extends beyond garments—it's about empowering women with safe, comfortable solutions for skin sensitivities.
What inspired you to pursue entrepreneurship while or after your education at Queen Mary?
Studying at Queen Mary University was a transformative experience for me, where I first discovered my passion for inclusive and impact-driven entrepreneurship. Over time, we’ve achieved incredible milestones, including winning awards like the Great British Entrepreneur Award for Scale-Up Entrepreneur of the Year, the Young Innovator Award, and Vistaprint's "Realising the Remarkable" grant. These recognitions highlight our dedication to innovation and community impact, which have driven our success in the niche market of skin-friendly lingerie
What were your goals at the beginning of your journey and how did they change/evolve throughout time?
As we grew, our goals evolved. With a commitment to listening closely to customer feedback, we expanded to focus on international markets, sustainability, and collaborative projects with nonprofits. Each of these steps has strengthened JulieMay’s mission, evolving it into a platform for inclusivity and positive change.
How do you deal with fear, doubts?
Navigating entrepreneurship is daunting, and I often remind myself that “Every journey starts with a single step.” This mindset helps me tackle each challenge. With the support of partners and mentors, including Innovate UK EDGE and the Department of International Trade, I’ve learned to rely on a strong team and network. Awards like the Lloyds Accelerator Dragon’s Den Winner and being named in the NatWest 100 Female Entrepreneurs to Watch also keep me grounded and remind me of the impactful work we’re achieving.
How have you used entrepreneurship for positive social change, and what impact have you seen in your community or industry, if any?
JulieMay embodies the idea that entrepreneurship can drive inclusive change. We proudly serve women often overlooked in mainstream fashion and partner with organizations supporting breast cancer survivors and low-income women, helping boost self-esteem and body positivity.
Our work promotes skin health awareness, and our collaborations allow us to be a part of something bigger - showcasing that entrepreneurship truly is for everyone, regardless of background or industry.
What advice would you give to current students or recent graduates who are interested in pursuing entrepreneurship?
For those thinking about entrepreneurship, remember: “Every journey starts with a single step.” I encourage you to lean on your community and listen to your customers. JulieMay is built on feedback, collaboration, and a strong support network. Success doesn’t happen in isolation, and with the right people by your side, you can build something remarkable that resonates and brings positive impact.