Franklin has always been interested in the politics of image and self-esteem as well as straight fashion. Her projects have involved refugees in battle zones, workers in free-trade-zone slums, mental health experts, MPs and government ministers and fashion industry innovators. She has contributed to many national newspapers and magazines. She has four books to her name, including a novel. A broadcaster, writer, director and producer, she has worked with many major networks to produce TV shows and documentaries. This included "The Clothes Show" which ran for 12-years from 1986-98 and "Style Challenge", which ran for 3 years from 1996-99, both on the BBC. Other shows included, "Swank" (Channel 4), "The Frock and Roll Years" (Channel 4), "Style Bible" (Granada), "Well Woman" (Granada) and "The All New Clothes Show" (UKTV Style). She also created documentary tributes for ITV featuring designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Matthew Williamson, Philip Treacy and Agnes B.