Maria Malone
Maria Køster Malone grew up in Denmark, where her fascination with sewing began in her childhood. She would watch her grandmother, a talented sewing teacher, create beautiful garments and intricate knitwear. This early exposure sparked Maria's curiosity and laid the foundation for her passion for the craft.
After pursuing her education in this field, she earned a bachelor’s degree in handicraft and textile design from Haandarbejdets Fremme in Copenhagen. During her studies, Maria focused on the history of country music and the significance of western wear, which would later play a significant role in her career.
In a bold move, Maria took her passion across the ocean and became an intern with the renowned western wear designer Manuel, based in Nashville. This opportunity marked her transition from Denmark to the vibrant music city, allowing her to immerse herself in the culture and deepen her understanding of the craft. She interned with Manuel from 2013 to 2015, gaining invaluable experience that would shape her future.
In 2014, Maria launched her own western wear brand, North Country Maiden, showcasing her unique style and vision. Her journey as a seamstress also led her to work on styling sets for notable artists such as Elle King and Hailey Whitters, further establishing her reputation in the industry.
Maria’s love for vintage fashion inspired her to create her own vintage brand, Cattle Call Vintage, which she began selling professionally at Anaconda Vintage in East Nashville in 2018.
As Maria explored the concept of upcycling, her focus gradually shifted from western wear to a more sustainable approach to fashion. She is deeply passionate about the therapeutic benefits of sewing and its ability to foster community connections. Maria believes that there is something very unique that happens when people come together to learn and create; it fosters a sense of belonging and shared joy. Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to experience the joy of creating garments for themselves and their loved ones while appreciating the craft and its positive impact on mental well-being.