Entrepreneurs Sharree Thompson and Ellie James launch Queens at Heart

A fashion venture launched during lockdown to empower young women has unveiled ambitious job and financial targets.

Queens at Heart, founded by Tyneside mums Sharree Thompson and Ellie James, is aimed at 16 to 35-year-olds.

And to aid its progress, the duo say they will expand their team over the coming 12 months, revealing plans to employ a number of apprentices and grow their administration, design, packaging and distribution teams.

They also hope to hit £1.5 million turnover in the next three years.

Sharree, co-founder and director, said: “Some of our range is inspired by high street fashion, but much of it is inspired by international styles making it a brand with an identity of its own.

 

 

“We are looking to expand our range for plus size women, tall and petite.

“We hope we can also work with designers so we can stock our own range and brand of clothing.”

Sharree had a promising start in the fashion industry, working as a model and travelling the country to manage fashion shows.

The 34-year-old took a break in her career to raise her three children and, 17 years later, she felt the urge to start her own company and reconnect with her flare for fashion.

Ellie, 27, has also experienced juggling career aspirations with raising children.

A make-up artist by trade, she trained at the PLouise Make Up Academy, in Manchester.

In addition to running the day-to-day operations of the business, Ellie styles the company’s models for photoshoots and intends to introduce a beauty line in the coming months.

Sharree added: “We would like to recruit from within the area; we would like to give back to the community.

“We also hope we can work with designers so we can have our range and brand of clothing.”