About AURA QUE
Brand Profile
AURA QUE accessories appeal to both the fashion conscious and the ethically aware consumer, through the use of contrasting materials - such as luxurious leather and naturally dyed yarn and fabrics - to create high quality contemporary products.
AURA QUE was established in 2008 by Laura Queening, following the success of her graduate collection at the prestigious Drapers Awards. Laura decided to take the opportunity to develop AURA QUE accessories which are manufactured according to IFAT fair trade guidelines, to promote ethical production and fair trade principles in developing countries. Laura decided to focus on fair trade production in Nepal, having lived there in 2003, and the launch of AURA QUE has enabled her to combine her passion for design with ethical principles. All AURA QUE materials are sourced in Nepal and created directly in the country with local producers, in conjunction with The Nepal Fair Trade Group.Biography
Laura Queening graduated from Cordwainers at London College of Fashion in 2007, with First Class Honours in BA (Hons) Fashion Product: Accessories.
With a passion for ethical fashion, Laura was involved in the LCF Shared Talent Fair Trade Project in South Africa before establishing fair trade accessories brand AURA QUE, producing leather and knit products in Kathmandu, Nepal. She has worked for Charlott Vasberg, Stori Sac and DKNY; and won the Drapers Student Accessories Designer of the Year 2007. Laura has also taken on various freelance design projects for the UK high street and designer market, and currently produces a range of Reworked Bags for the Oxfam boutiques made from unwanted leather jackets.Background
Laura Queening's connection with Nepal started over six years ago when she taught English in a rural school in South Nepal for five months. Living with a local family, she soon became totally immersed in the Nepalese community.
Nepal was the natural choice of country for the manufacture of AURA QUE, because the political situation had hit the country hard, stunting most development. Through its work with the Nepal Fair Trade Group, AURA QUE aims to promote the organisation in the hope of encouraging more trade throughout the country. With regards to design and creativity, Nepal has a great wealth of natural materials and traditional crafts, and the work of the Nepal Fair Trade Group ensures a great base for ethical production.