on walking away from her dream life and launching her new label

On the surface, Triangl co-founder Erin Deering had it all: a multi-million-pound business, a successful relationship, a glittering profile. But, deep down, she wasn’t happy. Here, as part of our Women Who Win series, she tells Lily Russo-Bah what hitting reset taught her about resilience

“I met my future business partner, [Craig Ellis] in 2011, and

TAKE US BACK TO THE BEGINNING OF TRIANGL…

we hit it off immediately. Our first date was at a restaurant; for our second date, we went to the beach – this was significant because I needed to wear a bikini. That morning, I went shopping for one and realised there was nothing that suited my taste and price point. I told Craig about this gap in the market and, right there, we decided to create a swimwear line together. Six months later, we moved to Hong Kong to get the business off the ground. We had no other plans than to live there, be close to the supply chain, and launch Triangl. It took us a year to perfect our samples, secure funding for our production order, and create everything we envisioned. Our first sale was in January 2013, and the rest is history.”

“I had fallen out of love with Triangl, Craig, and

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO PART WAYS WITH THE BUSINESS?

myself. I thought leaving Triangl would solve all my problems. Craig and I had separated romantically a few months prior, so I was trying to eliminate everything I believed was causing my issues. After exiting the business, it took about six months to realise that the real problem was me – not the things I had cut out of my life.”

“Turning my back on the life I’d created. I was living in

WHAT IS THE BRAVEST THING YOU’VE EVER DONE?

“I was living, I suppose, ‘a dream life’, but, deep down, I knew it wasn’t making me happy”

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISTAKE YOU’VE MADE?

Hong Kong into China to avoid paying taxes. Initially, all our products were made in China and sent to Hong Kong because our home served as our warehouse, office, and studio apartment. As our business grew, we needed to get all that stock back into China to use a distribution centre there. Instead of following the legal process, we chose the illegal route and got caught. It was terrifying because we didn’t know what would happen to us or our business. We ended up losing all our stock, but mistakes are crucial for growing, so I don’t mind making them as long as I learn from the experience.”

TELL US THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED…

moments of joy every day because they come together to create an overarching feeling of gratitude. I also like: businesses don’t fail, founders quit. This keeps me motivated to push forward.”

“Don’t be weighed down by the things you’re not

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE STARTING A BUSINESS?

HAVE YOU EVER FELT DISCRIMINATED AGAINST AS A FEMALE FOUNDER?

I sat in boardrooms with huge private equity firms, dealing with really big companies and influential people. I was always very much respected. I also had a newborn at the time, so I would bring my baby in and excuse myself to go and breastfeed – I never felt discriminated against, ever. I was very fortunate. But I also think that advocating [for yourself] gives you a lot of strength and backbone, which is essential for running a business.”

“Preparation is key. Before making your ask, reflect on what you want and

HOW CAN WE ALL ASK FOR MORE?

why you want it. Ask yourself, ‘Why do I want more money?’ or ‘Why do I want this promotion?’ Being clear on your reasons not only helps you articulate your request more effectively but also ensures you’re aligned with your true goals. Approach the conversation with a positive mindset and avoid framing your request from a place of desperation. Instead, believe in the abundance of opportunities and trust that, regardless of the outcome, you’ll be okay. This positive outlook tends to lead to better experiences and less disappointment. Finally, have a plan for your next steps in case your request is denied, whether that involves seeking feedback or exploring new opportunities. Being proactive about your next move will prevent you from feeling stuck or defeated.”

HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE SUCCESS?

Monaco and had exceeded every expectation I’d ever had for my life. I was living, I suppose, ‘a dream life’, but, deep down, I knew it wasn’t making me happy. So, I gave it all up, moved back home to Melbourne, Australia, and gave away everything I had. Many people would see that as a step backwards, but it was the biggest step forward for myself.”

“From a business perspective, it was getting Triangl off the ground.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE?

We were living in Hong Kong with absolutely no money. I had never been in such a vulnerable position and it required a level of mental strength that I had never tapped into before. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that you only fail when you quit. There is always another way, another door to open, another direction to pivot to.”

“We made a major error trying to smuggle our products from

“Protect your peace. I focus on savouring the small

good at. There’s a misconception that, as a founder, you need to be good at everything. In reality, few people excel at every aspect of running a business. Outsource what you can and focus on what you love doing.”

“I’ve learned that you only fail when you quit. There is always another way, another door to open, another direction to pivot to”

“When Triangl became successful,

“In my view, you never truly find a perfect balance.

HOW CAN YOU ACHIEVE THE RIGHT WORK/LIFE BALANCE?

Instead, you constantly shift between prioritising work and personal life. Sometimes, work will take precedence, and other times, your personal life will. This ongoing swing is normal; no one is ever perfectly balanced, excelling equally at both all the time.”

“When people tell me that my children are happy, well-adjusted,

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT?

and loving. Seeing them grow and embody these qualities fills me with immense pride – far more than any business success I’ve achieved. I’ve accomplished a lot in my career, including my time with Triangl, but what truly fills my heart is witnessing my children’s growth and their ability to share love and happiness with others. There’s nothing more fulfilling than genuinely connecting with my children and being in the moment with them. This connection is what life is truly about.”

“I don’t usually celebrate success in a big way. This is something I’m working

“I truly believe women will continue to rise and harness the incredible powers we possess. We are undeniably remarkable beings”

“My unwavering commitment is to the customer;

WHAT WILL YOU NEVER COMPROMISE ON IN BUSINESS?

I will never compromise on putting them first – ever. Every decision and action revolves around delivering an exceptional experience for them. The customer is the reason my business exists, so they always come first.”

“Do the work. Nothing has transformed my life more than understanding myself

WHAT IS YOUR MANTRA?

on a deep level. To ‘do the work’ means investing in myself – spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically.”

“Looking ahead, I truly believe women will continue to

WHAT WOULD YOU WANT TO CHANGE FOR WOMEN?

rise and harness the incredible powers we possess. We are undeniably remarkable beings. Our strengths know no bounds, and as we start to truly recognise and embrace that, the world will transform for the better.”

“Being a woman. I feel immense gratitude for being a woman who embraces her

WHAT IS YOUR SUPERPOWER?

flaws and recognises her own incredible worth. My greatest achievement will be to support other women in feeling, owning, and honouring their own strength and brilliance.”

“I’m thrilled to announce that this month I’m launching a women’s ready-to-wear brand.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU?

This is a real passion project and the collection will be available exclusively through my website, so everyone in the UK and beyond can enjoy it. Fashion is something I deeply love – it has a unique ability to positively impact our mental health and empower us. I want to bring a brand to the market that’s fun, a bit disruptive, and doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet still respects the importance of dressing up every day.”

“From a shopping perspective, Harrods and Selfridges are my

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE LONDON HAUNTS?

go-to destinations. I adore Mayfair and love wandering around its elegant streets. During my last few trips, I stayed at The Connaught, which is incredibly exuberant and flashy, but I also have a soft spot for The London EDITION hotel. Both are exceptional in their own unique ways. For me, London is not just a city – it’s a vibrant, ever-changing inspiration that’s also introduced me to some fantastic fitness experiences. I tried Barre Pilates here for the first time, and it was the hardest class I’ve ever taken.”

“Don’t expect Melbourne to dazzle you with

WHERE SHOULD FIRST-TIME VISITORS TO MELBOURNE HEAD?

obvious attractions like Sydney – our charm is more subtle, and the city has a way of revealing its treasures slowly. Whether you’re after fine dining or hidden-lane cafes, Melbourne is a culinary paradise, but be sure to explore our beautiful parks and gardens, too – they offer a serene escape from the urban bustle. If you’re here during the AFL (Australian Football League) season, catching a footy game is a must – the atmosphere is electric. For a day trip, head to the wineries in Red Hill for some of Victoria’s finest wines. In summer, the Mornington Peninsula is perfect for a getaway. Our beaches might not be world-renowned, but they have a charming, relaxed vibe. If you need more tips, find me on Instagram – I’d love to share more of my favourite spots with you.”