Lauren holds a BA (Hons) in Fashion Design and spent nearly a decade designing for major high-street brands before stepping away to explore a more meaningful, community focused path.

Her MA in Fashion Innovation & Realisation, is rooted in Welsh heritage, creativity, and cultural identity. No longer driven by commercial trends, Lauren is passionate about using design as a tool for connection, reflection, and well-being.

She is the Director of Community & Sustainable Fashion at Recreational Wardrobe CIC, where she supports accessible, circular fashion initiatives and creative engagement within the community.

After experiencing burnout in the fashion industry, she is dedicated to creating inclusive, creative spaces that support community engagement and personal growth.

Proudly based in North Wales, Lauren’s practice is guided by a deep respect for tradition, craft, and the voices of her local community.

Hiraeth, a project for Cymru

My project is rooted in my deep connection to Welsh heritage and a desire to explore the rich tapestry of its history, culture, and community. Wales has long faced challenges to its identity, shaped by moments of cultural suppression and political influence. Alongside these historical forces, I am inspired by the resilience found in traditional Welsh craft and the role it plays in preserving identity. By reconnecting with community and craft, my work aims to celebrate and reimagine what it means to be Welsh today.

This connection to heritage became especially meaningful during my time living abroad. After working and living for over five years in Stockholm, I noticed how each visit home restored a part of me, while every departure left me feeling diminished. The Welsh word hiraeth perfectly describes this sentiment. My experiences with hiraeth have deepened my commitment to celebrating Welsh culture and preserving it for future generations.