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Lili Doran

Queensland University of Technology

I am a final-year Fashion Design student at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) with a passion for creating contemporary garments that celebrate the beauty of the natural world. My practice centres on working with natural fibres and traditional handcraft techniques, exploring how materials can tell stories through texture, movement, and form. Sustainability is at the heart of my design process, with a focus on thoughtful material choices, slow fashion, and creating pieces that encourage a deeper appreciation for nature. My graduate collection, Gondwana, draws inspiration from Australia's ancient rainforests, translating organic forms and natural textures into wearable art. Through my work, I strive to merge craftsmanship, innovation, and environmental consciousness, creating garments that celebrate both the beauty of natural materials and the landscapes that inspire them.

Gondwana

Category: Apparel

Competitions: Fashion Competition 2026

Gondwana is a graduate fashion collection inspired by the ancient rainforests of Gondwana, exploring the intricate beauty and resilience of one of the world's oldest living ecosystems. Developed through extensive field research in Springbrook National Park, the collection translates organic forms, textures, and natural processes into contemporary garments using exclusively natural materials. Wool, silk, leather, feathers, clay, and reclaimed natural fibres are combined with traditional handcraft techniques including wet felting, nuno felting, hand embroidery, hand beading, and textile manipulation to create richly textured wearable art. Sustainability is central to the collection, with an emphasis on slow craftsmanship, thoughtful material selection, and celebrating the inherent qualities of natural fibres rather than disguising them. Gondwana aims to foster a deeper appreciation for Australia's unique natural landscapes while demonstrating the creative possibilities of working exclusively with natural materials. Through each garment, the collection invites the wearer to reconnect with nature, highlighting the beauty, complexity, and enduring value of the environment that inspired it.

Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.