Introducing… the dream summer dress by Albaray.
As is the case with many new (to me) brands, I found Albaray through Instagram – specifically, via @carolinesstylehacks who was wearing a gorgeous yellow dress that would later be seen on style icon Holly Willoughby. Thankfully, I already had one in my possession before Holly posted a photo of herself wearing it…
Anyway, when I saw Caroline in hers, I went straight to Albaray’s profile and started scrolling. I was hooked within seconds. I’m a sucker for a summer dress and this Instagram page was filled with them, in varying colours and fabrics – blue, red, yellow, floral, gingham, leopard, linen, broderie, cotton, viscose. There was really something for everyone, and the brand immediately appealed to me for its low-key but feminine aesthetic. I ordered three dresses at £89 each and kept two, perfectly timed for my birthday – one from my husband and one from me to me.
Albaray is a new business venture by three women with over 25 years’ experience in the fashion industry (they’re all former Warehouse execs). Paula Stewart, Karen Peacock, and Kirstie Di Stazio founded Albaray during the pandemic in 2020 – like many, last year they were given a moment to take stock, and they found themselves reflecting on their respective roles in fashion. One constant theme amongst them was a pull to move towards a more thoughtful and sustainable approach to fashion while connecting with women who (like them) love clothes but are now more considerate of their impact.
The website describes the brand: “A considered curation of uplifting styles with an uncompromising attention to detail. A collection of versatile styles to stand the test of time. Designed for everyday – from wear-anywhere dresses to feel-good loungewear – all made with sustainability in mind.”
Obviously the designs are what attracted me first. But it was this ethos coupled with the all-female small start-up that made me click add to bag and follow through with a purchase. I received a lovely ‘thank you’ email for my order, and when the dresses arrived I was delighted with the quality and fit. I am so glad I took a risk and tried something new – I love my dresses and Albaray is now one of my favourite sustainable fashion brands that I will undoubtedly shop with again. I hope you love them too.
I’m wearing:
Dress, Albaray (sale now on)
Basket, Wayfair
Flip-flops, Havaianas
Bracelet, a 16th birthday gift
Herringbone necklace, Mejuri (gifted for a previous project)
Shell necklace, Paper People (sold out)
Sunglasses, New Look
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