For many British women Margaret Thatcher was a true inspiration – the UK’s first female Prime Minister and proof that women could break through the glass ceiling and achieve anything they set their minds to.

Designer Anya Hindmarch is one such fan – she even transformed the windows of her Pont Street store into an homage to the politician to coincide with the Oscar-winning biopic, ‘The Iron Lady’. In the October 2011 issue of ELLE she revealed why the Baroness had such an impact on her.

‘During my teenage years, Britain was going through a grey period with strikes and three-day working weeks. I remember how depressing it seemed. So when Margaret Thatcher put her energy into supporting small businesses, cutting the red tape for new companies and privatising the nationalised companies, there was a huge sense of optimism and opportunity – it was a very exciting moment. Thatcher was fantastically clear thinking, tough as old boots, but fundamentally prepared to take a hard line for the greater good – she was the ultimate power woman. She inspired me not only to start my business, but also to have the determination to work through all the barriers you are faced with in the early stages. I have these quotes of hers written in my diary: “Any woman who understands the problems of running a home will be nearer to understanding the problems of running a country.: and “Being powerful is like being a lady. If you have to tell people you are, you aren’t.” She was truly inspiring – and she always carried a handbag.’

Margaret Thatcher died this morning; read all the latest news here.