The Ukrainian Seamstress
Mary Grace Godfrey, Designer & Seamstress
Fashion Meets Style
It is in my nature to think outside of the box. Above all else I pursue style. Fashions move fast, as do the well-financed manufacturers with large distribution networks. They seize upon the inspirations of the truly creative and race to the market before them. This slash and burn mentality not only drives the true artists out of business, it also leaves the consumer with inferior clothing and lowers the tone of our lives. Why do you think they call it the “rag industry?”
As the granddaughter of post-war immigrants from Ukraine, I choose not to compete in this blood-red fashion ocean where predators feed off all the others. It is not that I am ignorant of competition. Heck, I was an intercollegiate swimmer at the University of Michigan where I trained with Olympians. But when it comes to real-life I much prefer swimming in blue water where good relationships and good business go hand in hand. Georgio Armani once said, “The difference between fashion and style is quality.” Quality endures, and this is where I choose to swim. Therefore, an Anagrassia cannot be compared to the work of get-rich-quick hustlers and other pretenders.
For those who value style and quality, we will likely share a future transcending the quick and the cheap while participating in the true and the lasting. Like my grandparents before me, I carry this culture within me and it transforms the world in which I and my customers live.
~Mary Grace
See some of my custom orders and family projects on my blog here:
"Marusya Marusya" is the name my mom used for me growing up. (Marusya is Mary in Ukrainian.)
Anagrassia's atelier is currently located in South Bend, Indiana USA
A portion of the profits made this season will be spent on machines, materials, and insurance for Anagrassia's sewing not-for-profit for middle school girls.
If you want to make a donation, please contact Mary Grace.
