My Story

I founded Ursa Style in 2019, following the birth of my first grandchild, Caroline. I enjoyed creating one-of-a-kind outfits for her that were crafted with quality and care. Next thing I knew, people were asking for their own, so I thought to myself… why not?
And Ursa Style was born!

I was born in Liberec, Czech Republic, which was once home to a thriving textile industry, known as the “Manchester of Bohemia”. Coming from a rich history of crafters, I learned to sew, cross stitch and knit at a young age, making my own clothes from the age of 15. My grandmother Gertruda was a talented knitter, while my grandmother Milada was a gifted seamstress and master of embroidery.

My grandfather Frantisek, the tailor of the family, was perhaps the greatest influence, with his own workshop in the apartment my family shared during my childhood. From him, I inherited a passion for clothes making, especially during a time when the selection of commercial fashion was uniform and expensive. I began with simple projects such as sewing pockets, buttons and cuffs, which soon turned into jackets and dresses with some guidance from my textile-savvy grandparents.

I carried these skills along with me when I came to the US as a political refugee in 1990 and settled down in the welcoming state of Vermont. Starting anew with little money, my textile skills became very useful, as I sewed and knitted plenty of clothing for my family, some of which I still have today! Eventually, it became less of a task and more so a hobby that allowed me to channel and cultivate my creative roots and skills. I hope to pass on these traditions to the next generations of my family and share my creations with you!

~ Monika

See my story on WCAX Made In Vermont