Designer Destinations: Ele Frankpitt of Phira London on why Devon is the ultimate summer destination

When Eleanor (Ele) Frankpitt and Macdara Duncan created their jewellery brand Phira London in 2017, they wanted to create a line that was not confined to just men and women.

“Macdara and I met in 2010 in Laos and discussed the idea of starting a jewellery business then. Six years later – after going to university and doing our own thing – we re-grouped and made it happen,” Frankpitt told the Standard.

“The brand was inspired by many things, from the equality movement to the androgynous style of icons like Patti Smith, as I had just read Just Kids and was becoming more interested in gender-neutral clothing and accessories.

“It became clear to us that jewellery did not need to be confined to either men or women like it traditionally is. We then channelled all these ideas, thoughts and inspirations to form our first collection, ‘Phria Originals’. We have continued to grow our collections, taking further inspiration from London based architecture and their shapes, whilst also promoting equality through different charity partners and media.”

Designed and hand-crafted in London, all Phira London pieces are made from 925 Sterling Siler, 22ct Gold and a variety of stones. There is also a strong emphasis on the lines being made from durable materials and having a sustainable production process.

To celebrate their ever-growing collection, we recently spoke to Frankpitt about her favourite travel destinations and why a place called Booby’s Bay will always be special to her …

All-time favourite holiday …

“I always love travelling and seeing new places, but the trip that stands out for me was a trip to Sri Lanka with my family at Christmas. The country is filled with vibrant colours, delicious food, incredible smells and really varied scenery. One day you can be doing a trek in the mountains, the next day you could be surfing on a small beach or going on a safari with elephants just a few feet away from you. It’s nice to be surrounded by so much history, culture and people that are so positive, happy and friendly.”

(Ele Frankpitt)

Favourite country to visit …

“It would have to be three – Croatia, France and the UK (specifically the southwest of England). Croatia because the Adriatic coast is just so beautiful and I love swimming, you can get lost on the islands finding small hidden beaches and be completely surrounded by the crystal blue seas and rocky hillsides. It’s also a great driving country!

“The south of France is also a favourite. It can be really rural and remote, you get great wines and food, plus you can go on day trips to either the Pyrenees or Spain. But nothing can beat Southwest England in the summertime which is when it really comes to life.”

Favourite city …

“I love so many cities for so many different reasons, from the romantic streets of Paris to the beach and party vibes in Barcelona, or even just being at home in London during the summer. Each brings its own unique charms.”

Favourite beach …

“I grew up in Devon so the beaches in the southwest will always have a place in heart. My favourite is probably Booby’s Bay.”

Booby’s Bay, Cornwall (Shutterstock)

Favourite restaurant …

“The best dining experience that I have had recently was at Campagnia and Jones, it was last summer which is a little while ago but the atmosphere and food was so great that it has stuck with me. It’s just off of Columbia Road and is amongst a few other bars and restaurants, everyone was outside enjoying the summer sun whilst drinking Aperol spritz on a sunny Friday. We had the most delicious pasta and wine whilst we sat watching the world go by in this charming little corner of east London.”

Packing essentials …

“My essentials include my Hunza G swimming costume, it’s one of my favourite items. A pair of really good sunglasses. Loads of suncream and of course, a selection of Phira London jewellery to accessorise my outfits.”

Items from the Phira London range (Phira London)

Carry-on beauty essentials …

“I will always carry a good lip balm, eye drops and whatever book I am getting stuck into at the time, right now I am reading Normal people by Sally Rooney and I can’t put it down.”