Mother+ Meets: Pepa González, founder of Pepa London

Welcome to Mother+ Meets… our interview series spotlighting women who are building brilliant things while also building a family. These are the stories behind the headlines — from late nights and bold pivots, to the quiet decisions that rarely make it to Instagram, but shape everything.

This week, we meet Pepa Gonzalez, founder of Pepa London, the luxury childrenswear brand known for its timeless design, exquisite craftsmanship, and royal seal of approval.

We spoke to Pepa about her journey from Málaga to London, the realities of building a slow fashion brand in a fast fashion world, and how motherhood continues to shape both her creativity and her leadership.

Tell us a little about you and what led you to where you are now.
I’m from Malaga, Spain, and now live in South West London with my two children, aged five and six months.

In 2013, I moved to London to work in the marketing department of the Spanish Embassy. When that contract ended, I began working in childcare while searching for my next role and that’s when I noticed how hard it was to find traditional, high-quality children’s clothing here in the UK, the kind I was used to seeing in Spain.

In Spain, we care deeply about what we wear — it’s an expression of who we are—and we value quality and provenance, both for our own clothes and our children’s.

Eventually, I found the courage to follow my instincts and launched Pepa London (formerly Pepa & Co) in 2014.

I began by curating my favourite Spanish childrenswear brands for the UK market, but as I built a loyal customer base and listened to their needs, I started designing myself— with no formal fashion training. The Pepa London label became our most successful line, so it felt natural to continue creating our own collections.

You launched Pepa London over a decade ago and have grown it from a one-woman operation to an international brand. What’s been the key to its longevity?
I can hardly believe it’s been over ten years as we’ve achieved so much in that time. It’s truly been a labour of love and dedication. Each year we push ourselves further, launching new products or collaborations, always striving to do better for our customers. The key has been staying authentic and true to our values.

From the start, I had a clear vision: to create timeless pieces that celebrate tradition, elegance, and craftsmanship. Over time, I’ve surrounded myself with a talented team who share that vision. We’ve grown thoughtfully, never chasing trends for the sake of it. Our focus on quality, heritage, and attention to detail has built lasting trust with families around the world.

What’s been your proudest moment—and your biggest “what now?” moment?
There have been a few! After nine months of organising the launch of the online store and when I first saw the website running and the collection uploaded online, this was such an exciting time for me. Then a few days later we got our first order from Singapore and I couldn’t believe it, I was so proud.

Opening our first boutique in Belgravia in 2018 was another defining moment. It allowed me to bring the brand to life in a physical space that truly reflected its spirit.

Seeing members of the British Royal Family wearing Pepa London pieces has also been incredibly special. Knowing our designs are part of their family memories is something I’ll always treasure.

My biggest “what now?” moment came right at the start, leaving a secure career to launch a creative business in a new industry. It was daunting, but trusting my vision changed everything.

How has motherhood shaped the way you design and lead your business?
Motherhood has deeply influenced both my creativity and leadership. I’m the youngest of five and grew up surrounded by cousins, traditions, and beautifully handmade outfits sewn by my mother. Those memories still guide my designs and I want our clothing to hold that same emotional weight.

As a leader, becoming a mother has taught me the value of balance, trust, and community. I want to nurture a brand culture that reflects those values.

Your brand blends Spanish craftsmanship and British tradition, even catching the attention of the Royal Family. How do you balance staying true to that heritage while evolving for modern families?
Spanish childrenswear has always drawn from British style—tartans, Liberty prints, Peter Pan collars, hand-smocked dresses. Sadly, much of that craftsmanship has been lost to fast fashion.

At Pepa London, we work hard to revive and preserve those traditions while evolving in a way that feels modern and relevant. Our latest Autumn–Winter collection, for example, features coordinating fabrics across ages and genders, allowing families to create timeless looks together. It’s about honouring the past while designing for today.

What do you wish more people understood about building a slow fashion brand in a fast fashion world?
Slow fashion isn’t just a business model—it’s a philosophy. It values quality over quantity, supports sustainable practices, and honours the artistry behind each garment.

Our pieces are designed to last, to resist the disposable mindset of fast fashion. Every stitch tells a story of culture, craftsmanship, and intention—and that’s the world I want my children to grow up in.

Where do you find your energy and what drains it most?
London inspires me endlessly. Its multicultural energy, hidden gardens, rich history, and creative pulse keep me curious and motivated. But I also find peace in the British countryside - there’s something so restorative about open skies, quiet walks, and a slower pace of life.

What drains me most is anything that pulls me away from creativity, like admin or firefighting. I thrive when I’m immersed in design and focused on how to make each new collection better than the last.

What’s one decision that changed everything for you?
Moving to London in my early twenties changed everything. I didn’t speak much English and knew no one, but I followed my instincts and my thirst for adventure. That decision shaped my entire life.

What does balance mean to you right now?
Professionally, balance means growing thoughtfully without compromising our identity. Personally, it means being truly present—with my family and in my creative work.

Finally, what would you tell other women trying to do both—raise a family and build something lasting?
You don’t have to do it alone, and you shouldn’t. Surround yourself with people who share your vision and values, whether at work or at home. Build a strong support network, trust your instincts, and remember: passion and purpose can take you far when you’re supported by the right people.

For more information visit www.pepalondon.com

QUICK FIRE ROUND

Current bedside book?
The Time In Between by María Dueñas or The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón—both are so captivating, I get completely lost in them before bed.

Go-to podcast or playlist?
I don’t have a specific playlist, but I love gentle, calming music at the end of the day—something for meditation or yoga to unwind.

Favourite place to eat with kids and without
With the kids, a cosy countryside pub after a long walk—The Queen’s Arms in Sherborne, Somerset, is perfect. Without them, I’d head to Barrafina for something more indulgent.

A mantra, quote, or reminder you come back to?
Long brunches at home with friends and family, filled with coffee and pastries—that’s my little luxury and my reminder to slow down.