Virgin Records founder Sir Richard Branson seems to have inspired Elizabeth Hurley to realise her dream of starting a clothing line.

According to contact music, she said that her new summerwear line Elizabeth Hurley Beach wouldn't have started her new business if it wasn't for Branson.

"I was on one of Richard Branson's islands (Necker) and realised this man had built this astonishing empire himself. I thought, 'It's about time I made an effort, even if it's going to be miniature,'" she was quoted as saying.