5 Things Friday - The Albaray Edit

5 of my favourite looks from Albaray with the all-important discount code.

It’s Friday again. Is it me or does that come round quicker and quicker each week? Firstly, can we give a big whoop, as today’s newsletter has been kindly sponsored by one of my favourite brands - Albaray! I’m sure you are familiar with small brand Albaray but, just in case, I'll do a quick roundup. They started in 2020; an independent female-founded women's wear brand. Led by Paula Stewart, Karen Peacock and Kirstie Di Stazio, the focus is on contemporary style that has a lower impact on the planet. I’ve been a fan right from the start, perhaps because it’s an all-female team - they just know what women want from clothes, and always deliver with contemporary wearable collections. I love their mix of great basics (think well-cut tees and midi skirts you’ll wear on repeat), but also their eye-catching prints and stand out midi dress designs. Interestingly, ‘Alba’ derives from the Spanish and Italian for dawn, and ‘ray’ symbolises a ray of light or hope. These words give a sense of positivity and optimism, which frankly we could all do with embracing! The team at Albaray has kindly given me a discount code to share… another whoop! MELISSA20 gives you 20% off all full price items. You have until Friday 21st March to use the code, so if you need any inspiration here are some of my favourite outfit formulas for spring/summer. Enjoy!

1. Relaxed Jeans + Sweatshirt + Cropped Trench + Trainers

My standard running around at the weekend, doing errands look. I love the relaxed jeans (I wear these in a 12) for a slightly cropped comfortable fit, paired with a cheerful sweatshirt and a spring essential - the cropped trenchcoat. The trench is pretty generous. I have mine from last year and wear an oversized 12. Add the M&S trainers (designer dupes as they’re very similar to the Onitsuka ones), a wool neck tie for chilly days, and I couldn’t resist the cute Amazon bag charm.

2. Midi Animal Print Skirt + Vest Top + Cardigan + Basket Bag + Strappy Sandals

Oh for sunny days, when it’s bare legs and strappy sandals! I love the shape and length of this organic cotton leopard print skirt, with a small side slit, comfy elastic waist and, of course, pockets! For warm days, a simple vest top will suffice; on cooler ones throw on this Boden cotton cardigan, some Boden strappy sandals and the essential basket bag (currently 25% off). I love stacking colourful bead bracelets in summer (use discount code MEL25) and some colour-pop sunnies.

3. Linen Blend Trousers + Swimsuit + Linen Blend Shirt + Flats.

These drapey linen blend trousers would be a great holiday staple. Just add dressy sandals and a smart top for going out or a T-shirt and blazer for an airport outfit. I’ve dressed them for a poolside look with a Boden swimsuit, an H&M linen blend shirt (which you can wear undone or tied in a knot), the Anine Bing raffia bag (discount code MEL20), M&S flats and Anine Bing cat eye sunglasses (discount code MEL20).

4. LBD + Shell Top + Kitten Heels + Statement Earrings

The perfect summer LBD would be a versatile item in your wardrobe. For spring, you can layer a tee over the top, then pack it for your summer holiday and pair it with flats and a basket bag for a great daytime look. For nights out, I’ve added the leopard print top to add interest, plus some gorgeous statement earrings from Byalona, Mango kitten heels, a raffia bag and sunnies.

5. Navy Cotton Midi + Pinstripe Waistcoat + Denim Shacket

I love a navy and red combo! I lived in the navy cotton skirt last year, it’s such a great staple to wear with tees and shirts. I’ve teamed it with the pinstripe waistcoat, which comes with matching trousers if you like a co-ordinating look. Throw over the denim jacket on cooler days (you can also wear it as a shirt when it’s warm enough). I’ve gone for some red raffia shoes, matching designer dupe woven bag and a little Monica Vinader bracelet (discount link here) to co-ordinate.

So, you’ve a week to take advantage of my discount code, MELISSA20!

Happy Shopping

Melissa xx