Apparel Programs as a Brand Extension

Fashion designer drawing new models for the spring collection

It is an iconic piece of apparel that spans gender, socio-economic status and geographic location. The t-shirt is universal fashion that fits all sizes and can be dressed up or down. While graphic t-shirts are a staple in our wardrobe, they are historically a relatively new garment. Printed t-shirts date back to 1942, when an Air Corps Gunnery School shirt … Read More

Stars Design Group CEO, Bret Schnitker, Named 2023 St. Louis Titan 100

Stars Design Group

2023 St. Louis Titan 100

 Titan CEO and headline sponsor Wipfli LLP are pleased to announce Bret Schnitker as a 2023 St. Louis Titan 100. The Titan 100 program recognizes St. Louis’s Top 100 CEO’s & C-level executives. They are the area’s most accomplished business leaders in their industry using criteria that includes demonstrating exceptional leadership, vision, and passion.  Collectively the 2023 St. Louis Titan … Read More

Capturing Brand Aesthetic through Apparel Design

YSL red bag with an iPhone that has an Instagram page up, in front of the bag there is a Chanel perfume and some earings

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 … Read More

Missouri textile and fashion experts instrumental in building Salvadoran apparel industry

Stars Design Group

CEO Bret Schnitker and chief strategy officer (CSO) Emily Lane joined a delegation of textile and apparel experts invited to El Salvador to advise Salvadoran counterparts on marketing strategies, developing business opportunities, supply chain efficiencies and sourcing in the CAFTA region.

SAINT LOUIS, Mo — Stars Design Group, a global fashion design & production house based  in Saint Louis, Missouri, is providing support to the U.S. government Commercial Law  Development Program (CLDP) in El Salvador.   In February, 2020, CEO Bret Schnitker and chief strategy officer (CSO) Emily Lane joined a  delegation of textile and apparel experts invited to El Salvador to … Read More

How to Protect Your Apparel Business in Volatile Times

Graphic images with the words Covid 19

It’s clear today that we are living in unprecedented times. For many in apparel industry sourcing roles, it is hard to find time and clarity to understand the ever-changing landscape. Over the last few years, businesses in the apparel industry have had to contend with tariffs, rising labor costs, decreasing retails, higher quality expectations, sustainability … the list goes on. … Read More