VISITING ALAIRE'S WORKSHOP
A few weeks ago, I had the chance to visit Alaire’s workshop and have a lovely chat with Laia, the creative force behind the brand. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn more about her journey and the story behind Alaire.
When I first thought about starting this blog, I knew I wanted to feature brands that really spoke to me. Alaire is one of those brands that stands out—not just for its designs, but for the personal story and thoughtful vision that Laia pours into every piece. It’s a project that combines creativity, materials, and a sense of identity, making it much more than just a brand.
Alaire is a project that blends materials and symbols, creating Mediterranean-inspired, experimental pieces. The name “Alaire” itself is a personal creation, born from a rearrangement of Laia’s own name—“Laia” becomes “Alai,” and then “Alaire.” It captures the fleeting essence of air, symbolizing everything ephemeral. This idea holds a deep connection to the sea, the vibrant blues, the wind, and the warmth of the Mediterranean, all of which define Laia’s hometown, Barcelona. In many ways, the name couldn’t be more fitting for a project that takes such pride in these essential elements.
The aesthetic of Alaire is rooted in Laia's deep connection to her surroundings. The brand is an extension of her personal tastes, shaped by the vivid colors of nature, the dynamic blues of the sea, the radiant sunlight at any given moment, and the warm touch of skin. This aesthetic evolves alongside her, constantly reflecting the world around her while maintaining a sense of natural simplicity.
Looking ahead, Laia imagines Alaire continuing to grow and evolve, staying true to its roots while embracing new opportunities. The brand will keep playing with creativity, dreaming big, and collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds to keep pushing boundaries. Laia also envisions Alaire maintaining its deep ties to Barcelona, staying grounded in its community, and keeping a close connection with those who have supported the brand since its inception.
What excites her most about fashion? It’s not the fame or the industry itself, but the process of creation. The journey from an idea in her head, to sketches on paper, to prototypes, to the final piece, has always been what drives Laia. This cycle—of creating, refining, and then seeing others adopt the pieces as their own—is what Laia finds most fulfilling. It’s a continuous loop that keeps her inspired, pushing her to start a new every time she finishes a project.
The goal is to make people feel empowered when they wear her designs. She wants them to feel like themselves, but with a renewed sense of energy, definition, and character. Fashion can sometimes be dismissed as superficial, but Laia has personally witnessed the sense of pride and confidence her clients exude when they wear Alaire.. That connection, that impact, fills her heart with joy.
If Alaire were a person, Laia imagines it would be easy-going, carefree, yet perceptive and mindful of its surroundings. It would appreciate the beauty of the sea and the fresh air, find peace in quiet landscapes, and embrace the simplicity of walking barefoot. Perhaps most importantly, this person would have a sense of comfort in their own identity, forever at ease with who they are.
Laia’s own identity plays a vital role in shaping the brand. Alaire started as a personal project, and it continues to reflect her innermost passions and inspirations. It’s not about creating a product to sell for the sake of profit, but about crafting something meaningful, something that resonates on a personal level and can inspire others in the process.
As I left the workshop, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of admiration for Laia’s journey, her vision, and her ability to weave personal meaning into every aspect of her work. Alaire is more than a brand; it’s a celebration of creativity, identity, and connection—qualities that make it so much more than just fashion.
