If you’re a fan of chic autumn dresses, look no further than Albaray’s uplifting offering of midis. From wafty cotton styles in laidback neutrals to velvets in luxe shades, it has every area covered for the new season.
You’ll likely have spotted a few of its designs over the years: the brand has had a steady rise into the spotlight since 2020, with Holly Willoughby recently wearing its Dotty daisy frill neck midi dress, £89, on This Morning. As we all know, Holly guarantees a sell-out and it’s not surprising with a formula of playful and optimistic styling from accessible and high street brands, for which Albaray ticks all the boxes.
This is a brand who knows exactly who they are, with authenticity and transparency laid out from the very beginning. Set up by three female founders in the pandemic, Paula Stewart, Karen Peacock and Kirstie Di Stazio, have all put their extensive fashion industry experience and credentials into the brand, which translates into thoughtful and considered attention to detail. Not just in the confident designs (with lots of extra touches the Eliza team loves), but also in the decisions they make at every stage of their supply chain.
Just as the brand’s name implies, taking the Spanish and Italian for dawn ‘alba’ and adding it to a ‘ray’ of hope, there’s definitely a sense that this brand is ready to grow and is acknowledging our need, and desire, for more environmentally conscious brands that are actually looking to the future. So as well as helping the planet, we’ll also have a dress we want to wear not just this time next year, but in 10 years down the line too.
Why we love a midi dress
There’s a reason midi dresses are more popular than ever before as they’re a stylish option that’ll see you through autumn. They’re a confidence-bringing item that, quite simply, you don’t need to overthink. You know it’ll look good and feel put together with absolutely zero effort (obviously, as it’s just one piece!) Especially so when they’re floaty and made of comfortable eco-friendly fabrics like Albaray’s. Consider what jackets to match it with, throw on trainers or some boots, and you’re set.
What’s Albaray’s approach to sustainability?
Visiting their factories often and maintaining a transparent and collaborative relationship with all their suppliers ensures that Albaray are involved with every process in their supply chain and are able to uphold their values when it comes to health and safety, environment, business ethics and labour standards.
Coupled with a considered approach to sourcing responsible fabrics and every bit of packaging, it’s reassuring to know its dresses have been made with a conscience. As well as fabrics such as Ecovero™ Viscose by LENZING™ (a natural fibre made from wood and pulp that generates up to 50% lower carbon emissions and less water compared to conventional viscose), recycled polyester (creating 70% less CO2 emissions than virgin polyester) and recyclable and biodegradable linens, they also use deadstock fabric, preventing surplus wastage and helping their suppliers.
Shop our favourite Albaray dresses:
You can also find Albaray in John Lewis, M&S and Next. Prices range from £55 to £130.