Sophia L. Scinto Interview | Respect the Artist
This interview was curated by KIR ART & START Shows
Sophia Scinto is a fashion designer, illustrator, and creative entrepreneur based in Connecticut, just outside of New York City. She is the founder of SLS, a made-to-order clothing and jewelry brand where each garment is specially tailored to the individual wearing it. Guided by the motto “Step into the luxury of SLS handmade pieces,” Sophia creates bold, edgy, and elegant designs, crafting every piece herself from concept to completion. In addition to her clothing brand, she creates original artwork under “Artwork by Sophia,” specializing in fashion illustrations and realistic portraits that showcase her technical skill and expressive use of color and texture. Known for her warmth, energy, and hands-on craftsmanship, Sophia blends fashion and fine art within her studio. Every design is created with intention, personal vision, and a commitment to delivering a luxurious and unforgettable client experience.
How did you get your Artist name?
The name I go by, which ultimately became my brand name, is SLS. These are simply my initials. I’ve always liked the sound and symmetry of my initials and name. This all originated back in middle school when I first learned how to sew and would sign and envision my brand name as “SLS”! I kept it this way as a nod to my younger self. I can now look back and say, “You did it!”
How did you get into creating?
My father is an extremely talented artist, so I learned all the fundamentals of art from him at a very young age. I never needed to take an art class because of him. And my mother, for those who know her, know she is a top tier fashionista. I truly feel like I am a blend of both of my parents, which is incredibly special to me. They introduced me to creativity early on, and their identities have shaped me immensely. To this day, I still go to my father for art critiques and my mother for visual and design advice.
Where are you from?
I am from Fairfield, Connecticut.
How did growing up in your neighborhood/city affect you?
Fairfield, Connecticut is a beautiful town, which I was lucky enough to be raised in. It’s along the coast and makes for a peaceful beach walk or stroll downtown near Fairfield University. But for most of my teen years, location wise, I knew I always wanted more. The slow pace of Connecticut wasn’t exactly feeding my creative soul. One thing I will credit Fairfield for is my high school's fashion design program. I won the school's fashion design awards every year, and it’s all because I had the most wonderful and encouraging teachers that really set me up for success. My location in CT was only a short train ride away to NYC, and from there on, that’s how I ultimately ended up attending the Fashion Institute of Technology!
What did you do to advance your skills/knowledge?
Attending the Fashion Institute of Technology surely ignited a fire in me that was laying dormant for years. I was now introduced to the next level of what I was truly capable of as a designer and artist. Attending school, in New York’s Garment District specifically, exposed me to new heights of art, expertise, and self expression.
Going from fashion classes in CT to NYC was a vast switch - now, I was surrounded entirely by likeminded creatives which is such a powerful atmosphere to insert yourself in. I took what I learned during those years and, to this day, am running with it as far as I can go.
What does your current setup look like?
I’ve always dreamt of having my own studio, and for years I worked out of a tight corner in my bedroom. Last year, I finally had the opportunity to design the in-house studio I’d always imagined with the help of my boyfriend — an actual dream come true! I would describe my studio as my cozy, creative sanctuary. It’s deeply personal and instantly sparks inspiration the second I step inside. It’s a reflection of all my passions: blending fashion design, art, and entrepreneurship into one space. One corner is devoted to my fabric collection, where textiles of all different prints, colors, and textures dance among each other. Along another wall sits my art desk, filled with Prismacolor markers, colored pencils, and sketchbooks. Nearby, I have drawers full of unique garment hardware like buckles and zippers, alongside delicate beads and jewelry-making materials. Another section houses my sewing machine and dress forms — this is where most of my late nights and hard work take place, where my ideas officially transform into wearable pieces. The room has been thoughtfully curated to epitomize a professional and boutique-like atmosphere. I built displays where my finished pieces hang cohesively, serving as both a personal showroom and reminder of the dream I am actively building toward.
Who inspires you?
I am inspired daily by those who keep pushing forward and pursuing what they love, despite the oversaturation within the industry. Sometimes it can feel daunting to navigate such a competitive and cut throat environment.
I deeply admire those who refuse to give up, no matter what. Their perseverance serves as a constant reminder for me to keep showing up and doing the same.
What is your goal when you create?
My goal is to leave a lasting impact on the viewer. To make someone smile. Give them a dopamine rush. To instantly inspire them.
Why do you create?
I create because it is my calling. I would be lost in this world without art.
How has choosing your creative path affected your life?
Choosing my creative path has guided me exactly where I need to be. It’s worked for me the same way a map or GPS would. If I ever feel like I’m getting off track, I know where home is.
Being a creative not only means to follow one path, but many. The mind is constantly racing with unlimited inspiration; you never run out of ideas. It’s a beautiful thing.
The voice in my head is constantly urging me “Sophia, go create something now! Right now!” And I couldn’t be more thankful to be born with this built-in inner monologue.
Did you have to overcome any obstacles along the way?
As a designer and artist who owns her own business and in-home studio, it sounds amazing on paper. But the reality is, I am the only one driving and operating this business — Social media, marketing, designing, constructing garments… everything!
My biggest obstacle has been balancing a full time job through it all. I do what I can with the free time I have: sketching on lunch breaks, sending email blasts on my days off, scheduling social media posts, sewing until 2 AM to finish a project… etc. I do get the occasional assistance from friends, family and connections I’ve made throughout the years and I’m incredibly grateful for their time and collaborative support — without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today!
I’ve worked hard to get to this point, and I know all of these efforts are paving the way towards earning my own team one day. It definitely won’t be for nothing — I can envision it now, and I can’t wait!
What is your dream as an artist and what steps are you taking to reach your dream?
It’s hard to pinpoint a single “dream” as a creative — the possibilities are endless! But I’ll share a few goals at the top of my list that I’m actively speaking into existence.
One goal is to write a book. I’ve always loved writing — as a kid, I used to “write books” by stapling pieces of paper together and scribbling up paragraphs and “chapters” with a ballpoint pen. Someday, I want to blend my love for writing and art, speak from my own journey, and ultimately teach others through my experiences.
Another big goal of mine is to do an art project or make a red carpet outfit (or outfits!) for my favorite celebrities. Ariana Grande, Tate McRae, Sabrina Carpenter… I’m talking to you!
How will I do this? By taking intentional steps everyday and sticking to it. Never letting up. I know that, in time, it will all come to fruition.
What would you tell someone else with a dream?
Chase what sets your soul on fire. Simple as that. Your dream was planted in your head for a reason. Don’t ever, ever stop working towards it. If you do, you will feel lost. But, if it is your true calling, you will always find yourself being led right back to it.
You’re extremely talented at what you do, and you know it. Life is too short to not let the world see your shine!
Tell us about your most recent release
Most of my work is made to order, with my business rooted in custom clothing and illustrations designed specifically for each client. This allows me to create pieces that feel personal, expressive, and completely unique.
But for the first time, my ready-to-purchase collection is now available! It includes handmade jewelry, a resort wear collection, and original art prints. As a seasonless brand, these pieces are designed to be timeless and wearable year-round. Offering a ready-to-shop collection makes my work more accessible while allowing clients to enjoy it immediately.
Each piece is individually crafted by me, while my canvas art prints are reproduced from my original illustrations. I intentionally do not outsource to factories because I believe in craftsmanship, quality, and creating thoughtfully made pieces instead of mass production. It’s a lost art. Prioritizing sustainability through hands-on, intentional craftsmanship is incredibly important to me.
My clothing, jewelry, and made-to-order designs are now available on my website and my art prints can be found through my Etsy shop (ArtworkBySophia.etsy.com)
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