The Dark Maiden is developed from traditional folk methods, sacred shadow work and the path of the Wyrd Artist. The Dark Maiden encompasses the raw imperfect beauty of Nature with a subtle sense of regality. Threading together folk aesthetic with modern functionality. All garments are created from sacred materials derived from a plant, animal and/or mineral core. As linen is the oldest dated fabric, it is naturally reminiscent of antiquity and bears a sentimental quality. I love that. It is also well-established as one of the most sustainable textiles in the World. All of these reasons are the basis of why I primarily work with linen.
As a reflective creator, I find myself peering back through herstory and falling deeply inlove with various traditional techniques women have used and the sustainable intentions behind them. Ever since I was a child, I’ve been dedicated to a path of handcrafting with natural elements and have had a large desire to share my pieces and this path with others. Unintentionally have I found myself fingering a semblance of solemnity throughout my work, dispensing raw segments of my own melancholy. Wherever that fades emerges other reflections- intention, growth, organic beauty and myth. While I would like my work to have a level of simplicity, intricacy seems to hold fast.
If a fable was to be worn, I hope it is here within The Dark Maiden.
Everything is birthed in small batches and at a slow pace to ensure high-quality and attention to detail. The intention is for The Dark Maiden garments to be wardrobe staples: worn frequently, deeply adored and even passed down as heirlooms one day. Minimal waste is extremely important to me, so pieces are cut carefully and extra scraps of fabric are donated to local teachers or parents who then use them to make dolls for children. I tend to lean towards linen in natural or darker shades as those are more biodegradable. The leather I use is predominantly veg-tanned and I often plant-dye the textiles I work with myself. I source the majority of my wool from Sweden and Denmark as it is excellent in quality and the livestock regulation laws are very high in Scandinavia. And I hire a Finnish Blacksmith to weld iron pieces that compliment the belts I’ve made which in return helps support his family.
I believe that linen garments and slow fashion can be a powerful gateway to sustainable consumption and repair, one that encourages people to live an Earth-friendly lifestyle. The Dark Maiden is a very humble business that is in an early stage of blossoming but is already having a ripple effect.
The Dark Maiden is based out of Skåne, Sweden and The Pacific Northwest, US. Everything is created and operated entirely alone by me Sigurd Persson.
I hope you find a few pieces here that you will cherish for many years to come!