25 Years of Stars Design Group: A Journey Around the World, Rooted in People and Purpose

Stars Anniversary Header Photo

This year marks 25 years since the founding of Stars Design Group, a milestone that feels both surreal and deeply meaningful. In an industry that’s constantly evolving, with trends that change in a blink and global challenges that keep even the most seasoned professionals on their toes, reaching a quarter-century in business isn’t just a number, it’s a testament to the people, places, and passion that have fueled our journey.

Group photo of Stars Design group india teamA World of Discovery

From the very beginning, our mission has gone far beyond design and production. It’s always been about understanding. That’s why we’ve spent the last 25 years circling the globe, not just to build business relationships, but to immerse ourselves in cultures, learn regional specialties, and truly grasp the artistry, precision, and heritage that makes each country’s approach to apparel production so unique.

Whether it’s the rich textile history of India, the technical innovation in East Asia, or the emerging craftsmanship of new sourcing regions, each trip has been a classroom, and every partner has been a teacher. We’ve walked factory floors in quiet rural towns and bustling cities, shared meals and stories with artisans and entrepreneurs, and learned that authentic collaboration requires respect, curiosity, and humility.

Image of Chokka, Bret, Emily and Lauren in IndiaThe People Who Make It Possible

Of all the things we’ve designed, stitched, and shipped, nothing compares to the relationships we’ve built. From the artisans who’ve taught us age-old techniques, to the entrepreneurs who’ve inspired us with their grit and ingenuity, to our clients who trust us with their vision, people have always been at the heart of what we do.

Our global team is as diverse and dynamic as the industry itself. While our headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri has been our home base and anchor, our reach is far and wide. Our India office is a hub of creativity, coordination, and collaboration, and the team there is not just an extension of us, they are us. Every sketch, every sample, every shipment is the result of synchronized effort across time zones and cultures.

Celebrating a Milestone TogetherBret, CEO of Stars Design Group with our 25th Birthday Cake

Being in business for 25 years means we’ve grown, evolved, and weathered our fair share of storms but through it all, one thing has remained the same: our belief in the power of a great team. Not just in-house, but across continents. Every success we’ve had is because of the people who showed up, brought their best, and believed in something bigger than themselves.

So today, as we celebrate this anniversary, we do it with full hearts. Grateful for the miles traveled, the lessons learned, the friendships formed, and the endless cups of tea, coffee, and late-night calls that have kept us going.
Here’s to 25 years of building something that matters, and 25 more!