Laura Ashley has continued to mark what would have been its founder’s centenary by encouraging the next generation of design talent.
The brand is working with students at Swansea College of Art’s surface pattern and textiles course, reflecting Ashley’s history in Wales.
The University of Wales Trinity Saint David students were invited to explore the brand’s archive, with a research visit to London in October 2025. After presenting their evolving concepts to the Laura Ashley team earlier this month, Sarah Davies emerged as the winner with her collection Regency Romance.
A series of hand-painted watercolours, adapted digitally, Sarah’s project reflects the ongoing appreciation for period-inspired pattern and print, bringing together her own take on a favourite trend for consumers. As part of the award package, Sarah receives a mentorship from the Laura Ashley team.
Former SCA graduate Anna Eynon won the Laura Ashley Lifestyle Award at New Designers in 2024, with her winning The Waters Edge collection part of the Laura Ashley AW25 collection.
‘We are absolutely delighted to be working with Swansea College of Art and building on our involvement at New Designers, as part of Laura’s centenary year. Honouring Laura’s legacy means looking forward, our founder was an entrepreneur, a creative force and a pioneer, and she would undoubtedly be championing emerging talent today. These partnerships allow us to celebrate our roots in Wales and our international impact, all while building a new legacy that takes the brand forward for future generations, engaging with emerging designers and creative thinkers on a global stage,’ says Poppy Marshall-Lawton, Laura Ashley vice-president.
