Seattle native Claudia Rice Kelly discovered her passion for textiles in 1975. A graduate of Evergreen State College, her more relevant education came from Seattle Central Community College's Apparel Design Program and extensive independent study.

In 1981, she became a vendor at the Pike Place Market—the heart and soul of Seattle— designing and crafting clip-on bow ties, scarves, wraps and jackets; all made from quality, hand-selected fabrics.

Claudia is also known for her vintage hat collection from which she selects a different one to wear every day. This inspired her friend, playwright Donna Rae Davidson, to pen the award-winning musical "Claudia Kelly's 500 Hats". Today, Claudia guesses her hat collection totals about 850, but she doesn't have time to count them as she's too busy making everything she sells, being active in Pike Place Market politics and working in her garden.

Claudia continues to sell her wares at the Market, so come and visit anytime you're in Seattle. You can find her in the North Arcade.