Laura McAndrews

Laura McAndrews is an Associate Professor in the School of Fashion at Kent State University, part of the College of the Arts. She holds a Ph.D. and M.S. from the University of Missouri, a B.S. in Fashion Merchandising from Kansas State University, and an A.A.S. in Fashion Design from Parson's School of Design. Her research focuses on amplifying underrepresented voices in the global apparel supply chain, exploring ethical design, cultural appropriation, and sustainable practices. She has pioneered courses integrating industry experience with academic rigor, such as digital design and product development.

McAndrews has extensive industry experience spanning nine years with brands like Ralph Lauren, The Gap, and Anthropologie. She leads initiatives like the Mutoh dye-sublimation printer lab and collaborates with companies like Lectra and the U.S. Department of Trade. Her work emphasizes cross-functional teamwork and capacity-building in developing regions, as seen in her projects with El Salvador’s textile sector.

Her research and teaching highlight user-centered design for underserved populations, such as children and individuals with disabilities. Key areas include decolonizing fashion design inspiration and addressing systemic inequities in supply chain labor. She has published widely on topics like cultural misappropriation, maternity wear trends, and mobile payment adoption in fashion retail.

McAndrews has advised numerous students, including Ana Urrego (M.S. 2017) and Lindsay Portwood (B.S. 2023), and secured grants totaling over $3.3 million for educational technology. Her labs and studios foster innovation, blending traditional craftsmanship with digital tools to prepare students for industry challenges.