Karen Lawrence steps out

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 8/23/2004 12:00:00 AM

WEST PATTERSON, N.J. —

Bath accessories supplier Karen Lawrence has been furnishing private-label programs for four years. Now it is stepping out as a brand.

"We were approached to brand by a very large customer," said Karen Levinson, president.

The company sells to independent specialty retailers as well as boxes. Retail pricing ranges from $4.99 to $9.99 on tumblers and from $19.99 to $39.99 on wastebaskets.

"I think fashion is really coming back in the bathroom," Levinson said. "When you think about it, a woman spends a lot of time there. Without the right accessories, it can leave you really flat."

The company's New York showroom at 230 Fifth Ave. displays products in a variety of styles, including classical, art deco, art nouveau and ethnic treatments as well as rustic and beach looks. Resin is the dominant fabrication due to flexibility, Levinson said, and designs mimic leather, marble, lacquer, copper and glass.