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Our JOURNEY

About Mary Benson

“Mary Benson emerged from my love for designing dresses, music and creating prints inspired by my favourite psychedelic 70’s album cover art’’

Where it began

After completing my studies at the University of Westminster in London, I dove headfirst into the thrilling world of fashion, showcasing my collections at London Fashion Week and joining the Paris Showrooms. Those electrifying moments ignited my passion for creating seasonal collections that spoke to my heart.

I hit burnout after years of relentless hustle. I wasn’t enjoying this way of life. I wasn't inspired, I was tired and lost. It was time to pause, breathe, and reassess what truly mattered. Inspired by my mother’s wisdom—"Don’t become so consumed with making a living that you forget to make a life"—I embraced a slower pace and turned my attention toward sustainability and made-to-order fashion, on my own terms, my own deadlines. So I opened Mary Benson online. During this transformative period, I became a mother myself and began creating captivating collections to sell directly to my customers.

Now driven by an intimate and my own individual approach to fashion, I pay homage to traditional clothing construction and my self-taught textile skills. My journey blossomed from magical doodles on cherished dresses into creating enchanting garments that capture a bohemian and free spirited essence. Today, my team and I design and create bewitching collections in small batches and make-to-order from our cosy York atelier—we collaborate with other like-minded brands and create dreamy show pieces for incredible musicians. We are fueled by a passionate team and talented freelancers who share this exhilarating vision. Welcome to my world!

Our Mission

"As a small brand, we passionately embrace a mindful approach to fashion. We dive into responsible production, crafting each garment specifically to order. Up-cycling pre-loved garments and often using dead-stock materials, saving them from the brink of landfill, we invite you to cherish your Mary Benson treasures, each with its own captivating story. With limited quantities, we keep it exclusive and bold, allowing us to play with inspiring prints and ideas that resonate with your bohemian spirit."

- Mary Benson

Founder, Creative Director and CEO

First photo by Libby Burke-Wilde, Second photo by Aisha Mohiddin