Marie Copps (Award-winning Fashion and Accessory Designer, Visual Artist, Film Critic, Director and Producer) was recently interviewed by TheCelebrity.Online Magazine and below is the Q&A session we had with Marie.

Marie Copps As Cover Story Interview – January 2026 Magazine Edition

How do you introduce yourself?

I am a multidisciplinary creative working as a fashion and accessory designer, film critic, fine artist, and photographer. In 2024 I produced and directed an award-winning short film that was screened at the legendary TCL Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Blvd during the Silicon Beach film festival. 

Struggle – What hardships have you gone through in life?

When I was in Grade 8, I was bullied for expressing myself through creativity. I had learned how to sew at just 9 years old, and by the time I reached middle school, I was designing and making my own clothes. Fashion became my voice, a way to express who I was and how I saw the world. But not everyone saw it that way. One of my classmates, driven by jealousy, turned the entire class of 30 students against me. Overnight, I was met with silence. No one spoke to me. I was being punished for simply being myself.

It was a painful and isolating experience, a harsh lesson I had to learn far too early. But looking back, that moment shaped me. It taught me resilience, and it reminded me that staying true to who you are is more powerful than fitting in.

Today, at 55, my mission is to inspire others to dress boldly, express themselves freely, and enjoy life through fashion. Life is beautiful and meant to be lived fully, no matter what others think. At the end of the day, it’s you who has to feel good in your skin. So get up, dress up, and have fun with it.

What do people usually not know about you?

Many people don’t know that I was born in former Czechoslovakia and spent nearly ten years in the banking world before my journey led me to Toronto, Canada.

What sets you apart from others?

I’d say it’s my fashion style. It’s a playful blend of textures, colors, and silhouettes, often finished with a headpiece, gloves, or other statement accessories. Physically, my height also sets me apart especially in heels, I reach over 6 ‘2″, which makes blending in nearly impossible.

What are your upcoming major events?

I’ve been a big fan of the new Project Runway Canada series, and I’m excited that the finale will be celebrated with a screening party at the Phoenix Concert Theatre in Toronto. The venue is sure to be buzzing with anticipation as we find out who will be crowned “Canada’s Next Great Fashion Designer.”

Later this month, I’ll also be serving as a celebrity judge at the Super Wonder Gallery for the Fashion Wars VIII competition. I’m very much looking forward to seeing the designers’ work and the creativity they bring to the table.

What expert advice would you like to give?

I’ve always wanted to be a voice and source of inspiration for others who have gone through similar experiences as I have. When you face bullying at a young age simply for being your authentic self, it leaves a mark, one that can stay with you for life. I carried that deep wound within me for decades until I was finally able to confront the trauma later in life through therapy.

That journey was not only liberating for my mind, but also transformative in how I view others and myself. I came to understand that we should never take other people’s judgments or cruelty personally. Often, it’s simply their own self-doubt reflected back at us, it has nothing to do with who we are, our values, or our beliefs.

Embracing your authenticity can be incredibly challenging, especially in a world that often prefers to maintain the status quo. Society isn’t always ready to accept those who dare to be different, but that makes it all the more important that we do.

So be who you are. Show the world your gifts and talents, and don’t ever hold yourself back. The world needs you just as you are!

Your social media handles and website links?

• Website: www.mariecopps.com
• Instagram: @mariecopps_official/
• TikTok: @marie_copps