{As we navigate this ever-evolving landscape, we decided to have a little extra fun with this article. We hope you enjoy the musical playlist that “just so happens” to align with each section. Find the playlist at the bottom of the article, grab a coffee or beverage of choice, push play, and read on}. Material Girl – A Material World becomes A Digital World The world is changing every day. Some changes we are ready for and are eager to embrace, while others can be a challenge to get one’s mind around. Growing up professionally in the garment industry in

Change is hard and big changes can seem overwhelming. As the fashion industry transitions into 3D design technology there are many challenges, but all are easily managed if you have the right mindset, infrastructure and support. Stars Design Group is built on the foundation of combining talent with technology, adopting 3D design nearly a decade ago. Now that 3D fashion design and merchandizing is entering the mainstream, there are many lessons to share. The perspectives of Browzwear, CEO and Co-Founder, Sharon Lim, Stars Design Group CEO, Bret Schnitker, and Stars Design Group, Director of Design, Bob Zelle can be found

This amazing business that I have had the opportunity to be a part of for thirty years hinges mainly on some form of aesthetic. From the first choice of a fig leaf over another arboreal choice, Humankind has made choices to represent in some aspect of who they are by what they wear. Notable global brands have harnessed consumer appeal across a diverse cultural landscape. Successful stewardship is not a simple task and becomes more challenging over time with ever-changing generation views. Aesthetics are no Longer Enough The definition of aesthetic seems straightforward- “giving or designed to give pleasure through

Since fashion is rooted in individualism, it provides the LGBTQIA+ community with the freedom of originality as of self-expression. The fashion industry has the ability to make people who do not conform to societal norms of gender feel accepted. From showing diversity in product offers to featuring a wide range of people in marketing campaigns, the fashion community is welcoming evolution and inclusivity in fashion. As the industry celebrates another Pride month, we will delve into what gender fluidity in fashion looks like and how it is changing the industry for the better.  The Gender ConstructWhile gender is a social,

There is something inherently transformative about experiencing a different culture. The sights, sounds, tastes, and interactions change us and become a source of inspiration. In February 2020, Stars Design Group CEO/President Bret Schnitker and chief strategy officer (CSO) and Emily Lane were provided that opportunity in El Salvador. As part of an 11 person U.S. delegation, Schnitker and Lane were invited to assess textile and apparel capabilities in San Salvador. The trip was organized by the Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP) and designed to foster relationships and mentorship between Salvadoran companies in the textile and apparel industry and U.S. counterparts.

Throughout the years, I have engaged with a variety of consultants with mixed results. It’s always a challenge to have high expectations in a short interaction with anyone, let alone an individual who is contracted to bring about change or correction to a current issue. Much like a great therapist, time spent understanding the complete landscape, the unique challenges, and overall goals are critical for success. Also akin to therapy, a good consultant will look to focus directly on the points of disfunction to create a path through the trouble areas. The process is not a quick one, and it’s

Looking up the word sustainability on Google, it will be defined as “the ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level.” That can mean a lot of things, but what does it mean when applied to the fashion industry? Is it secondhand shopping, purchasing from brands that are ethical, using vegan leather or recycled materials? What does being sustainable in the fashion world really mean, and what does it mean to you? The importance of sustainability isn’t a new conversation. For years now designers, creators, and other professionals within the industry have been working to shed light on

Today it’s not enough that a garment feels right or looks good; many want and expect what we wear to do something. Young consumers are surrounded and connected to technology, and a natural extension would be the clothes they wear. The blend of fashion and technology has never been more relevant. Thankfully to service this trend, many companies are looking to fill the niche. Technology enhancements to garments are not new, but the enhancement and quality level has undoubtedly come a long way from basic wicking and UPF protection. Fabric performance is not limited to durability and climate control today,