Ashley Jensen used to use a kettle as a handbag.

She said: "[Westwood] is not a style icon for nothing. I really connect with her.

"I was one of those kids who went through a phase of wanting to dress shockingly. At one point I started using a kettle as a handbag.

"I love that she never apologises for the female form. In fact, she accentuates it."

The 46-year-old actress also cites Sara Blakely, who founded Spanx, as an inspiration, both because of her perseverance and because she is a fan of the control undergarments.

She said: "She was turned down time and time again by manufacturers, but she persevered because she believed she had a good product. And she did; I love my Spanx."

Ashley also admires the "integrity" of 'Chocolat' actress Juliette Binoche.

She explained: "She's a wonderful actress, with real integrity. She often turns down blockbusters to tell a more interesting story and never takes an obvious route to portray a character."

And 'The Lobster' actress is a big fan of Kate Bush, even though her music always makes her cry.

She told Britain's Glamour magazine: "Her music makes me cry. She's a phenomenal songwriter.

"I first started listening to her back in drama school. I admire that she keeps total creative control over everything that she does. I think that makes her a true artist."