Happy International Women’s Day

As we celebrate International Women's Day today, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable women who have left an indelible mark on history and continue to inspire us today. At Priestleys, a brand born from the vision from myself and my husband, we draw immense inspiration from the timeless elegance and grace of women such as Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly. Their impeccable style and unwavering confidence have not only shaped our brand but also inspired us as parents: with our daughters, who we gave Audrey and Grace as their middle names, to houner the legacy of these extraordinary women.

Crafting with Integrity:

From the outset, we made a conscious decision to handcraft all our products here in the UK. This choice was driven by our desire to have complete oversight of our manufacturing process, ensuring that no one, and in particular women and children, were exploited to make our products which is often the case within the fashion industry. Crafting with integrity is at the heart of everything we do, and we take pride in knowing that each piece is ethically produced, allowing us to uphold our values of fairness and respect for all.

The Legacy of Audrey Hepburn: Audrey Hepburn, with her effortless charm and timeless beauty, captivated audiences around the world. From her iconic little black dress in "Breakfast at Tiffany's" to her humanitarian work with UNICEF, Audrey's impact extended far beyond the silver screen. Her impeccable sense of style continues to influence fashion today, reminding us that true elegance is timeless.

Grace Kelly: the epitome of grace and sophistication, captured hearts as both an actress and a princess. Her regal style and understated glamour set her apart in Hollywood and on the world stage. From her elegant wedding gown to her timeless ensembles, Grace's fashion choices continue to inspire designers and fashionistas alike.

Passing Down Values and Traditions:

As parents to two wonderful daughters, we are committed to instilling in them the same values of grace, resilience, and creativity embodied by Audrey and Grace. We believe that empowering the next generation of women starts at home, and we strive to provide our daughters with the tools and support they need to thrive in a world that celebrates their uniqueness and potential.

Supporting Women's Empowerment:

As part of our commitment to women's empowerment, we also want to highlight women’s health, organisations,  and initiatives that support gender equality and women's rights. From advocating for equal pay to providing resources for women entrepreneurs, there are countless ways to make a difference and contribute to positive change.

On this International Women's Day, let us honour the extraordinary women who have shaped our world and continue to inspire us with their strength, resilience, and grace. Whether it's through fashion, activism, or everyday acts of kindness, let us celebrate the power and potential of women everywhere. Together, we can build a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and shine bright. Happy International Women's Day!

Read the next blog post detailing 5 women’s charities and organisations that are making a real difference for real women here in the UK,

Karen Elizabeth Priestley BA (Hons), PGCE, MA

Founder and designer of Priestleys, Fashion Lecturer at Nottingham Trent University

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5 UK Charities Empowering Women: Making a Difference Together

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