Marie Sophia Designs

Marie Sophia Designs Handmade, unique dresses in the Bohemian style with an ethical mindset.

Marie Sophia Designs offers unique dresses that are not repeatable that no one else will have. All ethically made with upcycled fabrics and handsewn with love. Exclusive bohemian style dresses for the lady who wants something that will stand out from the crowd.
High-end, hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind designs, ensure no one will have a dress the same as yours.
Each item is lovingly created by Marie Sophia from start to finish with many hours of work going into each unique piece.

Marie Sophia Shell Knob MO | I handmake unique, boho style, classy dresses with and ethical ideal that I keep to.

Welcome to my store.

I’m a British-American living in the beautiful Ozarks of southwest Missouri. I emigrated here in 2009 and have truly grown to love the quiet, simple life I’ve built.

In 2014 I returned to England for my eldest daughter’s wedding. Giving her away was one of the very best days of my life. While I was there, I had a vivid dream of a little girl in a tattered rainbow dress. The image was so clear and stayed with me long after I woke. It kept gently returning to my mind, and when I came home, I decided to start playing with clothing. I’ve always preferred pieces that feel different and rarely find mainstream garments I truly enjoy wearing.

I began with a simple mid-length red cotton dress. I cut into the skirt, added pieces of colored fabric, and finished it with a sparkly top and a cute belt. I loved wearing it so much. Everywhere I went, women stopped me to ask where I had bought it. That was the beginning, and I haven’t looked back since.

In January 2015 I opened my Etsy shop. At the time I was volunteering at a large thrift store, where unsellable clothes and fabrics regularly came in. I was able to gather a wonderful collection of materials to work with. I never set out to make wedding dresses, yet many women chose them for their special day, which has always meant a great deal to me. Since then, I’ve made more than 600 dresses that have found homes and been worn around the world.

Every dress is created in the same careful, quiet way. I begin with a lightly worn “starter” garment—a top, camisole, dress, or light jacket—and place it on a dressmaker’s form. Then I pin compatible second-hand fabrics onto it, often spending many peaceful hours adjusting and playing until it feels just right. Once I’m happy, I tack everything together on the form. After removing it, I begin the long, meditative process of hand-stitching, usually going over each seam twice so it stays secure and strong. The finished dress is then gently laundered and hung outside to dry in the fresh air, ready for its special occasion. Each item is double checked before sending out.

Some of my dresses may have fabrics that are unfinished with raw edges that may increase with wear and laundering.

I send all orders out with free priority shipping that requires a signature upon delivery. This prevents your purchase being left on a doorstep or porch.

Maker Badge Happy Place

In nature, surrounded by trees and lakes and the music that living in the country provides.

Maker Video

Alternate image for Bohemian handkerchief hem pink and white dress with floral crochet and corset lacing

Marie Sophia Designs

Marie Sophia Designs

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