A moment that changed me: I began wearing skirts with pockets big enough to hold a wine bottle

‘I wanted to fit the essentials: phone, keys, a paperback, my iPad, and maybe a bottle of wine’ … Rosie Talbot in one of her handmade bustle skirts with very big pockets Photograph: Supplied image

I had missed my intended train to London Victoria and was running late. The carriages were busy, but I managed to find a seat and read a few more chapters of the paperback I was enjoying. I was uncomfortable, distracted and worried about my choice of outfit. Would I be overdressed? I should have opted for skinny jeans and a nice blouse, but there was no time to turn around.

My discomfort about my clothing had already put me behind schedule. A baby was crying. I moved seats so that the parents could sit together. A tinny announcement declared that we would unexpectedly have to change at Gatwick due to a staffing issue. Flustered, I texted my friend to let her know I would meet her at the bar.