The off-the-wall fashion icon, who picked up a Medal of Excellence at the Walpole British Luxury Fashion Awards at the Banqueting House in London’s Whitehall, advocated some unexpected savings. “Times may be hard but British fashion has always been eclectic. It’s all about not looking like anybody else,” said the designer.

She showed off a necklace of safety pins that would have made her punk ex-partner Malcolm McLaren proud.

“Women should try on their husband’s jackets and even boxer shorts for size as outer wear,” she insisted. “Wearing political badges is also a great look and kerchiefs worn as knickers can be fun for the disco or beach. You can also tie tablecloths or even blankets around yourself to look good.

“There is a status in wearing your old favourites over and over until they grow old. It’s all about looking glam, not buying cheap rubbish from the high street – that stuff just goes to fill landfill sites.”