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Lillie & Cohoe

We specialize in hats for women and men designed and fully manufactured in Nelson. Fabrics used include wool, cotton, linen or technical blends. We also consult on manufacturing processes, pattern making and size grading.

Give us a brief description of your manufacturing processes and philosophy

We work from our own designs. All work is done in-studio with accomplished stitchers and cutters. We also employ young graduates from textile programs. As much as possible we create items with what we have, to reduce our footprint. We back up our products in quality and expect every hat or coat to last years. Our purpose is to support the best appearance of the wearer.

How many employees and/or contractors do you work with?

Six employees.

What brought you to the Kootenays and how long have you been here?

We came 40 years ago to create a lifestyle apart from the mainstream, to experience self-sufficiency, and raise a family. I have lived in Nelson for 31 years.

Tell us about the history and relative work experience of your founder(s).

I am a graduate of the Fashion Design program at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute (now University). I’ve been involved in the industry since that time and have experience in Custom and Couture, running my own studio for women’s custom clothing design. I’ve teach pattern making and pattern sizing at post secondary (SAIT), digital pattern making in the skiwear manufacturing industry in Calgary, freelanced and done contract hat design for Smithbilt hats in Calgary, and I’ve built and maintained a design and manufacturing hat business in Nelson.

Describe the mission, vision, goals, and aspirations of your company.

Our mission as hat makers is ensure the hat is not a stand-alone object, but a creation that enhances the best features of the wearer.