ABOUT

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.

Maria took her passion across the ocean and became an intern with the renowned western wear designer Manuel Cuevas, who is 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 Cuevas, while attending school between 2013 to 2015, gaining invaluable experience that would shape her future.

Maria launched North Country Maiden in 2014 to bring her singular take on western wear to a wider audience. Combining hand-tailoring techniques with modern sensibilities, she creates pieces that are simultaneously classic and contemporary. Her skills as a tailor have led to collaborations with local stylists and high-profile artists — Elle King, Hailey Whitters, Tamra Rosanes, Countryside Of Harmonica Sam, Jason Aldean, Chris Scruggs, Kenny Vaughan — and culminated in work for Dolly Parton. These partnerships have broadened her exposure and reinforced her standing in both the fashion and music communities.

Inspired by a lifelong love of vintage fashion, she founded Cattle Call Vintage alongside her husband Brendan Keith Malone, and has marketed her collections professionally through Anaconda Vintage in East Nashville since 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 and our environment.