Last month we were absolutely thrilled to finally launch and announce our new vision and brand name Alakai.
With 2020 being a year of reflection and delays we decided there was no better time to move forward with our rebrand.
Over time our brand has evolved. We have blossomed into a brand that not only produces women's and children's wear, but supports ethical and sustainable practices and encourages a slow lifestyle of less is more.
We feel that Alakai is reflective of who we are today and where we want to go in the future.
With all the change in the air we thought it would be a good time to kick off our journal and have a chat with the brand's creative director and founder Amy for all things behind the brand.
How did you first come into the world of fashion?
I landed in the fashion industry by luck, one of my girlfriend’s was working for an Australian Fashion label and told me they were hiring. It was definitely a case of not what you know but who you know.
How did the brand come to life?
Little Gypsy Co began as a little hobby and creative outlet whilst I was on maternity leave, I struggled to find unique baby clothing for my daughter. With my love for Indian textiles and “happy pants” I sourced a small factory in Jaipur and had baby harem pants sampled up from vintage sari silks. I started selling from my Instagram page, slowly adding new products and organically evolved into the brand Alakai. We still proudly work with the same factory today.
Does the new name Alakai have any meaning?
The name is inspired by both my children's names Ayla and Kaius.
When people buy from Alakai what can they expect?
Our ongoing mission is to create feminine and timeless pieces that our customers feel beautiful in. Our pieces can be worn with confidence knowing the garment was created slowly and kindly supporting fair and artisan trade.
Amidst of working and raising a family, what is the greatest lesson that you have learnt and how do you find balance between the two?
Finding balance has been my biggest struggle. Family time and work time need to be separate and you can’t mix the two. I’ve discovered you can’t do it all. My family always comes first and getting enough time for the two is definitely a juggle.
What and who inspires you the most?
Nature is my biggest muse. I’m forever grateful for living in Australia. I'm always inspired by passionate people, people who follow their dreams and strive to be better humans.
How have you come to define success?
I must admit, when I first started out I definitely defined my success from the number of social media followers I had. Today, I define success by being able to do what I love whilst being at home with my children.
What are three things that you indulge in to take care of yourself?
There are a few things that I need to do to be my best self. I love taking my dog for morning walks along the beach, I try to get in 3 workouts a week and love doing a breathwork practice.
Where do you call home?
I grew up on Sydney’s Northern Beaches but just over a year ago, our family moved north and landed in the beautiful beach town of Palm Beach on the Gold Coast. Everyday feels like a holiday.
What does your perfect day look like?
Early beach walks and swims with the family and our pup Sunny. Breakfast bowls at our favourite cafe and back to the beach or creek for endless swims.
Next Holiday Destination?
I had planned to visit our factory in India this year to meet all our amazing makers but with no international travel due to Covid-19 those plans have been put on hold. This summer we will stay local and explore and support some our local beach towns.
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