Once a dress is completed, she gets models to try them on to make sure the fit is right. It takes as many as eight try-ons before Lawson is satisfied. That's important because her Web site guarantees the dresses will fit properly, or she refunds the customer's money, including shipping. So far, she hasn't had any requests for a refund.

Lawson also keeps up on the latest trends. That requires traveling to trade shows where she also learns about the latest in fabrics.

"It's a lot harder than I imagined," she said. "It's so time-consuming."

After several customers wanted to see the dresses before purchasing them, Lawson approached manager Steve Tuttle at Urban Trends, a Provo Towne Centre clothing store. The store agreed to carry several of the dresses in every size — from small to extra large — and sold out most patterns within two weeks.

The store is known more for its modest skirts and tops. Dresses that meet that standard are harder to come by, Tuttle said.

Two of MikaRose's black numbers were the most popular, he said. One was gathered in the front while another featured a red panel along the bottom that runs part way up the side. Black dresses are easy to accessorize, Lawson said. Prices are generally under $80.

"We were excited about her because she's local. We liked her modest styles . . . it was a good match," Tuttle said.

"I'd love to be a leader in trendy, modest dresses," Lawson said. "I want to bring back the classy Audrey Hepburn idea. I want my dresses to always be considered such."

---

E-mail: rodger@desnews.com