Samantha Jean Moore, founder of the sustainable fashion brand MOCOCO, has a background deeply rooted in sewing. Growing up as part of a fourth-generation family of seamstresses, she spent her childhood creating art from fabric scraps. Her mother, a seamstress, inspired her belief in the transformative power of creativity, shaping Samantha’s understanding that anything could be made from what is available.
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In 2013, Moore established MOCOCO, short for “Modern Country Couture,” utilizing recycled materials such as burlap bags, vintage sheets, and old denim. Her initial product was a Kentucky-shaped pillow, which she handmade and sold at local festivals, gaining enough success to move to her first apartment.
However, as the market for Kentucky-themed items became flooded with competitors, Moore shifted her focus towards couture. Today, she describes her fashion as “Southern eclectic streetwear and couture rooted in classic Americana.” This shift allowed her to create unique pieces that reflect a commitment to sustainability and artistry.
Participating in the Recycle the Runway competition, Moore found inspiration and validation; she won the competition twice and was named Audience Favorite in 2018. Her designs frequently tell stories, such as incorporating a quote from the Statue of Liberty to express solidarity with DACA recipients.
Her involvement with KMAC Couture from 2018 to 2025 further developed her craft, allowing her to showcase work that addresses deeper emotional themes. Moore has produced sustainable garments from hemp and discarded clothing, and she has exhibited her work in New York and Washington, D.C. In 2025, she won the Best Stylist award at Best Dressed Kentucky.
Throughout her career, Moore has worked independently on all aspects of her craft, from design to styling, drawing on a network built through years of participation in craft fairs. Adaptability has been essential as she navigated changes in the market, including a pivot to costume design and theater during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reflecting on her journey, Moore emphasizes the importance of persistence in creativity. She encourages aspiring artists to embrace failure and rejection as part of the process. “Make bad art. Show it to your friends… Keep creating whatever makes you feel good. It doesn’t have to be good for anyone else,” she states.