Who says that kid's clothes can't be both fun and eco-friendly? With the work of today's featured indie designer, Jayme Lillie, you're sure to get both. Her line, Lillipops Designs, is made entirely from recycled fabrics, including repurposed men's button down shirts, and each piece is sure to make your little princess stand out from the crowd.

Tell us a little about yourself and your work. I'm Jayme, stay at home mom, apparel designer and owner of Lillipops Designs. I've been at the sewing machine, designing and stitching away since I was four years old. I'm all grown up now with three kids of my own, but I never lost my passion for creating beautiful, whimsical garments that any little girl would be delighted to wear.

My three children inspired not only the look of Lillipops Designs, but my eco-conscious philosophy. Each of my pieces is crafted using recycled garments. That skirt may have been a man's shirt, and that lovely dress may have been a vintage tablecloth. I select only fabrics that are high quality, durable and beautiful.

Each Lillipops Designs is an original design, professional crafted by me. No two are alike! They are designed to withstand washings, tree climbing, tea parties and mud pies. I love what I make and I know you will too!

How did you get started as a designer? I've been at the sewing machine since I first started designing Barbie clothes at the age of four. After trying my hand at many different artistic ventures, I finally came "home" to clothing design. I am a fabric junkie ... if it catches my eye I HAVE to have it and find a way to incorporate it into fresh, fun garments for children.

What inspires your work? Anything and everything! First of all, my children. Their sense of adventure and the notion that there are no "wrongs" when it comes to being creative inspire me every day. I'm also inspired by the colors and textures in the natural world. I'm also a bit of a Europhile ... I love the simple lines and quality construction of European design.

Who are your favorite designers? I'm a pretty simple girl. I love the simplicity of designers like Calvin Klein and Phillip Yim. But I am CRAZY for unique and "signature" accessories. I shop places like Etsy all the time, looking for statement jewelry and other accessories. I love being the only one who has something. Not a status symbol thing, but just knowing that someone took time to make something and I was the only one fortunate enough to get my hands on it!

What are your top fashion & beauty must-haves? Like I said, I'm a simple girl. I have three very young kids, so I need beauty and fashion to work with my crazy lifestyle. I'm also super tall, so for me, a perfect pair of jeans (with a 38" inseam) is essential. I'm also from the Seattle area, so stylish jackets and boots are also high on my list of must-haves. My makeup routine is quick, but I love mineral makeup. I tend to use natural products and products that have more than one use. After all these years, the one product I won't leave the house without is Clinique's Black Honey Almost Lipstick.

Any advice you would give to aspiring designers? Don't be afraid to take creative risks. It's important to keep tabs on trends, but it's even more important to aspire to SET the trends. Do what feels right for you and make your own unique statement.

Where can people find your work? You can find my work at www.lillipopsdesigns.etsy.com


We love all of the amazing independent designers out there and we wanted to find out more about what makes these creative types tick. If you do too, check out more of our Indie Designer Interviews.