Inspire: Meet Marie Sansome Midlands Fashion Awards Independent Designer of the Year

Q What time does your alarm go off?

M: If I have an appointment my alarm is set. However if I don’t I wake naturally around 8am.

Q What’s a typical day like for you?

M: I wake, go downstairs and make a coffee. I then go sit in my garden. After I return, wash, dress for the day and enter my sewing room. I start working and will continue until I feel ready to stop. After I take a bath & relax by cooking, watch a movie and write a ‘to achieve’ list for the next day. Sometimes I sit and look at whatever is on my mannequin/stand. To work out where the design will go next. My days are quite simple. I work alone, I love people and teams but some how it has come about where it’s me, fabric, sewing machines and music in the background.

Q Tell us about your education / career route, where did it all start for you?

M: It began at Hinckley College. Where I studied fabric & garment design. I’ve worked in the industry both employed & freelance. I learnt a lot in the world of work. Now I wish to be my own boss and work on projects.

Q What was it like taking part in the Midlands Fashion Awards 2018?

M: I thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the Midlands Fashion Awards. At times it didn’t feel real.

Q And how did it feel to be announced as the winner of your category?

M: When I heard my name announced I continued to clap and walked up the catwalk clapping. I was shocked and overwhelmed plus happy at my achievement.

Q What’s your career plan going into the New Year?

M: New Year plans, I intend to continue with my bridal alterations business and use the income to fund my designer ideas. I have a few ideas with twists. I’d like to eventually show at London Fashion Week.

Q What would you say has been your most difficult hurdle so far?

M: A hurdle I had to jump was recovering from injury, I got hit by a car whilst crossing a road on foot and during this time lost of my father/friend to cancer. I lost my studio, self-employment and income. I some how managed to achieve ‘Midlands Fashion Awards Independent Designer of the Year 2018’, during this time. I never gave up on my dreams.

Q Best piece of advice you have been given?

M: My friend & neighbour told me ‘to keep sewing’ and so I did. Some days challenged my determination. The air was heavy and self doubt had come. I’m so glad I listened to that advice. I have thanked her and am so grateful for the support. She believed in me.

(Marie receiving her ‘Independent Designer of the Year’ award)

Q Is there anyone in the fashion sector that you think is inspirational?

M: I find inspiration from most designers and life. I watch and read a lot about the history and the now of fashion. My favourite designer Coco Chanel.

Q After work you like to…

M: When I finish working. I cook, eat, watch a movie or documentary and then sleep. I like the simple things in life and appreciate them more than ever.

Thank-you Marie.

Images by Steven Murphy – S M PHOTOGRAPHY and Garazi Photography

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