Interview with Kara-Noel Lawson of Eli’s Lids

As part of Boys Fashion Month we’ve had the pleasure of interviewing a number of awesome clothing designers working with all different styles.  This week Kara was kind enough to answer some of our questions and give us a peek inside the mind behind the lids!  Enjoy!

On your website, Eli’s Lids you talk about wanting clothing for your son that took a different path than the traditional “pastels and puppies”, would you mind elaborating a little more?

I’m a huge dork and love matching.  After our son Eli was born I wanted him to match with my husband. Since my husband wouldn’t wear fire truck overalls so I had to get creative!

What inspired you to start “from the top” with your Lids (vs. shirts, onesies, ec)?

Babies grow out of clothes so quickly and I hated to spend money on something that would only last for 3 months. I noticed when I put cute hats on Eli, it would spice up a plain outfit. I could spend less on clothes and still get “oo-aah” factor while showing off my little guy. I designed hats (aka Lids) that will fit little heads for a LONG time.  Our smaller size fits newborn thru1-year-old and the larger size fits 1 thru 5-years-old.

What can we expect to see next from Eli’s Lids?  Anything in the works for other types of clothing?

We are slowly moving into clothes starting with everyday tees for boys. The first in the new line will come out this fall inspired by Eli’s love of pirates. But we will always stay true to our hat roots. Next in the Lid department will be a newborn style just for coming home from the hospital. And I’m thinking a fedora or newsboy Lid will come after that!

Did you have any other influences in your life that pulled you in the direction of clothing design?

My mom is an amazing seamstress and I picked up sewing growing up. Eli’s Lids was born because I wanted a certain style for my son that wouldn’t break the bank. I wasn’t happy with what was out there so I made something I would love.

What sources of inspiration do you continually find yourself going back to, what are some new ones that have influenced your upcoming work?

Eli has always been the inspiration for Eli’s Lids.

What current trends are you keeping an eye on? Any that you just can’t stand?

I’m keeping an eye on vintage meets contemporary. I love when a classic style like a pea coat is stylized with some modern details. I can’t stand children’s clothing that isn’t comfortable, practical or fun. Kids should be able to move and play in their clothes and the designs should bring a smile to their faces!

How do you feel that current trend affects your design?

My “current trend” is whatever Eli is into. Which means our California lifestyle, his friends and his sweet lil’ personality are the trends that affect Eli’s Lids.

What do you feel makes your work unique?

It’s easy to see that our Lids are adorable and stylish but what makes us unique is how practical they are. The Lids are at a very low price point and because of our designs the Lids will fit for so long. Did I mention that most of our styles are completely made in the USA? AND 10% of our profits go to the amazing autism charity – Surfers Healing!!

What’s your favorite Lid(s) from your current line up?

The Snowboarder Lid.  Whenever my kiddos wear them we get countless comments about how awesome they look. REALLY! Get one and find out for yourself.

Do you have a photo of your workspace you could share with our readers? It’s always interesting to see where the magic happens!

No pictures…LOL! My sewing room looks like a fabric store, a craft shop and boys clothing section exploded. Oh, and there is a crib in that mess where our latest little guy, Cyrus, sleeps at night. I actually do a lot of sewing in our dining room so I can keep an eye on the children while they play.