Clothing Coulture
Conversations with fashion industry innovators and disruptors discussing solutions to real industry challenges.
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Understanding Fabric Care in the World of Technology
11/21/2023
Understanding Fabric Care in the World of Technology
Hosts , CEO and CSO discuss fabric care and the importance of following care instructions. The conversation explores the default decision on fabric care, the general rules of thumb for different fabrics, and new technologies that enhance the performance of fabrics.
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Maximizing Profitability In Fashion Buying for Brands
11/01/2023
Maximizing Profitability In Fashion Buying for Brands
"Underbuy or Overbuy, you never buy the right amount" is a saying CEO Bret Schnitker uses when talking about maximizing profitability in fashion buying. Hosts and CSO discuss the challenges of overbuying and underbuying in the fashion industry. They emphasize the importance of analyzing sales data and using retail math to determine the right amount of inventory to purchase. Additionally, they explore strategies for managing inventory and meeting customer demand.
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Navigating Fabric Dyeing, Finishes, and Industry Innovations
09/05/2023
Navigating Fabric Dyeing, Finishes, and Industry Innovations
Garment dyes and finishes can be applied to garments to enhance their look and feel. CEO of , and CSO discuss the topic of fabric dyeing in this episode of Clothing Coulture. They explore different types of dyestuffs and how they are used for various fabrics. They also touch on the challenges of dyeing, such as water and energy usage, and the environmental impact of dyeing processes.
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The Benefits of Creating an Apparel Uniform Program
08/22/2023
The Benefits of Creating an Apparel Uniform Program
Uniforms can be an opportunity for companies to showcase their brand and values while creating stylish and comfortable uniforms that employees enjoy wearing. In this episode of Clothing Coulture, host and explore the evolution of uniforms - from solely being a means of identifying employees, to being more fashionable and stylish. Additional benefits of uniforms extend beyond brand identity by creating a sense of community, improving productivity and job performance. There are many ways to get the most out of your uniform program.
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How Wrinkles are Rated in Apparel Production
08/08/2023
How Wrinkles are Rated in Apparel Production
No one likes wrinkled clothing, except for linen, which is in a category of its own. When it comes to apparel manufacturing there are many ways to reduce or eliminate wrinkles in clothing. In this episode, CEO, and Chief Strategy Officer , discuss how wrinkle ratings are visually determined, their impact on fabric longevity, and the evolving landscape of wrinkle-resistant fibers, from formaldehyde-based solutions to eco-friendly alternatives.
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Efficiencies around Technical Design and Apparel Production With Annie Cohen
07/25/2023
Efficiencies around Technical Design and Apparel Production With Annie Cohen
Successful apparel manufacturing is all about creating efficiencies. This applies to every aspect of the production process, including designing, planning, sourcing, and manufacturing. In this episode, Stars Design Group CEO, and Chief Strategy Officer, , discuss technical design efficiencies with , Consultant Director of Technical Design at SDG. Learn: How pattern consistencies save time, reduce costs, and reinforce branding. Why manually placing patterns maximizes textile consumption How proactive sourcing can save time and money in an apparel program
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The Future of Sustainable Apparel Manufacturing in India
07/11/2023
The Future of Sustainable Apparel Manufacturing in India
A lot is changing with apparel manufacturing in India. CEO, and Chief Strategy Officer, , recently visited the country to visit our two offices and meet with our factory partners. Along the way they saw manufacturing changes. In this episode, they discuss how the country is embracing more sustainable methods of production and how it is learning into synthetics.
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Apparel Production MOQ's by Country
06/27/2023
Apparel Production MOQ's by Country
There are many factors that impact apparel manufacturing, from proximity and type of raw materials to factory size and the skill level of the work force. CEO, , has spent decades in the fashion industry and has first hand experience working with garment factories all over the globe. In this episode, Schnitker sits down with Chief Strategy Officer, , to discuss apparel production MOQs for the world’s top manufacturing countries. To access the materials mentioned in the episode .
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The Impact of Inflation on Apparel Brands in 2023
03/02/2023
The Impact of Inflation on Apparel Brands in 2023
Everyone has been feeling the impact of inflation for more than a year. Consumers are dealing with rising costs, while businesses and industries navigate rising wages and raw material costs. In this episode, CEO , and Chief Strategy Officer , discuss the key components of inflation impacting the apparel industry in 2023 and how brands can navigate these challenges. (Recorded March 1, 2023) Stars Design Group provides consulting across all areas of the apparel industry, visit for more information. Visit to browse all of our episodes.
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Top 3 Questions About Apparel Manufacturing In China In 2023
02/16/2023
Top 3 Questions About Apparel Manufacturing In China In 2023
Manufacturing in China seems to be on everyone's mind these days. Increasing political tensions, the U.S. ban on cotton from the Xinjiang region, COVID restrictions and previous delays with shipping are all causing concern. In this episode of the Clothing Coulture podcast, CEO and Chief Strategy Officer, answer the top 3 questions Stars Design Group receives on a weekly basis. 1. Can I move all manufacturing out of China? 2. Can I near shore or on shore production? 3. Can I build my own factory? For more information or to contact us:
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Identify and Fix Problems in Fashion Production
01/31/2023
Identify and Fix Problems in Fashion Production
Companies with apparel programs need to be mindful of all areas of fashion production to ensure every process is working effectively. When one component is not functioning properly, it affects the entire apparel program and ultimately profitability. To fix a problem, you first have to identify it, which can sometimes be difficult and may require a different perspective. In this episode, CEO, and Chief Strategy Officer , discuss the value of bringing in outside expertise to identify planning and production missteps in apparel programs. Audio highlights 02:41 Business plans 04:48 Assortment planning strategies 08:53 Design consulting 14:31 Tech pack development 16:22 Manufacturing challenges 24:06 Logistics of international shipping Additional resources: S1 Ep 3 S2 Ep 15
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Small Details That Elevate Clothing Quality
01/17/2023
Small Details That Elevate Clothing Quality
Little decisions throughout the development of a garment can have a big impact on the quality of the end product, without significantly impacting the cost. In this episode of the podcast, CEO , and Chief Strategy Officer discuss how everything from fiber selection to the type of stitch on a button and labels can elevate clothing quality with a minimal impact to the bottom line.
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How Fit Tech Is Changing Online Shopping with Whitney Cathcart
01/03/2023
How Fit Tech Is Changing Online Shopping with Whitney Cathcart
As consumers become more dependent on phones and devices, the shift to online shopping is increasing, causing challenges for apparel retailers. But there are new technologies that can help improve the situation, by adding transparency and understanding to the process. In this episode of Clothing Coulture, CEO, and Chief Strategy Officer, talk to Whitney Cathcart, Co-Founder of . The group discusses how fit technology is changing online shopping by using photos to collect accurate body measurements, and how that data can be used to develop future sizing and merchandising. Whitney also shares the areas with the greatest potential for growth as fit tech becomes more advanced and widely adopted. LEARN MORE: clothingcoulture.com
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Merging Science, Culture and Tech in Fashion Education with Gabi Asfour
12/20/2022
Merging Science, Culture and Tech in Fashion Education with Gabi Asfour
A thoughtful and insightful conversation with Gabi Asfour, Founder and Creative Director of threeASFOUR and faculty member for the MFA programs at Parson’s School of Design and FIT. In this episode, Asfour discusses how science, culture and technology are merging in fascinating ways to enhance fashion education and the industry as a whole. In this discussion with Stars Design Group CEO, Bret Schnitker and Chief Strategy Officer, Emily Lane, Asfour shares examples of how his students are collaborating with scientists on innovative solutions and learning how technology can enhance their craft.
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Apparel Programs as a Brand Extension
12/06/2022
Apparel Programs as a Brand Extension
Using apparel is an inexpensive way to build brand awareness. With a $7 t-shirt the cost per impression breaks down to 2/10 of one cent. But for established brands, apparel can go beyond t-shirts, hoodies and caps, into apparel programs which can lead to brand extensions that can increase revenue. In this episode Stars Design Group CEO, Bret Schnitker, and Chief Strategy Officer, Emily Lane discuss the benefits of using apparel to build brand awareness, when to consider it, and key elements to keep in mind when planning the program.
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What's Next In The Fashion Industry? 2023 and Beyond
11/22/2022
What's Next In The Fashion Industry? 2023 and Beyond
Technology, and supply chain transparency as it relates to sustainability, are shifting all areas of the fashion industry. New organic components and recycled materials are being used to create innovative new textiles, health-monitoring technology is being added into garments, and clothing is being produced in a more eco-friendly manner. In this episode, CEO, , and Chief Strategy Officer, , discuss the impact each of these will have on the industry's future. Learn more:
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Self Expression and Inspiration with Mickey Boardman
11/08/2022
Self Expression and Inspiration with Mickey Boardman
There has been a lot of talk about inclusivity in the fashion industry but movements toward sizing need to extend beyond the rack. In this episode of the Clothing Coulture podcast, Stars Design Group CEO, Bret Schnitker, Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), Emily Lane sit down with Paper Magazine Editor at Large, Mickey Boardman for a conversation about self expression and inspiration in the fashion industry, which can be uninviting for those who don't fit the conventional mold. Boardman also shares where he finds inspiration outside of the fashion world with practical lessons we can all embrace.
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Innovations in Retail: Predicting Future Trends with Deborah Weinswig
10/25/2022
Innovations in Retail: Predicting Future Trends with Deborah Weinswig
Shifts in purchasing, consumer behavior, logistics and technology are all causing major changes in retail. With the convergence of so many elements, it’s hard for retailers to identify the trends with staying power. Enter , founder and CEO of , a firm specializing in data-driven insights for the retail industry. Weinswig has been ranked the top analyst by Institutional Investors for the last 10 years. In this episode, CEO, , Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), and Deborah Weinswig discuss how technology is changing the retail landscape and how it is providing opportunities for companies to innovate and grow.
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The Heart of Fashion with Designer Ivan Frolov
10/04/2022
The Heart of Fashion with Designer Ivan Frolov
The heart is at the center of Ukrainian designer, Ivan Frolov’s work, from the heart shaped cutout and details to the human heart logo placed on each design symbolizing it is a living breathing work. Frolov, whose name is pronounced ‘for love’ is one of six designers who showcased their work at Kyiv Art & Fashion Days New York, an extension of the original event held in Ukraine in October 2021, just months before Russia invaded the country. In this episode, Stars Design Group CEO, Bret Schnitker and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), Emily Lane discuss the importance of the heart in Ivan’s work and how he is using it to keep Ukrainian traditions alive while also giving back to those impacted by the war with Russia. LEARN MORE: Frolov website: Frolov Heart Project: Instagram:
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Meet the designers at Kyiv Art Fashion Days New York
09/28/2022
Meet the designers at Kyiv Art Fashion Days New York
In October 2021, the first Kyiv Art & Fashion Days was held in Ukraine. The multiple day festival celebrated the vibrant culture, art, fashion and music of the area. A group of US representatives, which included Clothing Coulture podcast guest Keanan Duffty, was invited to the event, all were blown away by the experience. Just a few months later, the unthinkable happened, Russia invaded the country and Ukraine began fighting for its independence. Keanan Duffty jumped into action creating a NYFW event with six participating Ukrainian designers and brands. CEO, , and Chief Strategy Officer , spoke with each of the designers at the Kyiv Art & Fashion Days New York event. This episode is a compilation of those conversations. A full length episode with Ivan Frolov will be released later this season. View their work | in interview order: Kristina Bobkova / Lilia Litkovska / Maya Persaud, Representative / Yana Linyva, COO / Learn more about
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Clothing Coulture | Top Trends Shifting The Garment Industry
08/16/2022
Clothing Coulture | Top Trends Shifting The Garment Industry
Garment production is an intricate process involving multiple organizations operating all over the world. The industry is so vast, one change cabana have a ripple effect impacting the entire industry. Right now the industry is experiencing multiple changes causing the industry to shift. In this episode, CEO, and Chief Strategy Officer, , discuss the top trends and the impact each is having on production, retail, e-commerce and inventory management.
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Clothing Coulture | Tips to Manage the U.S. Ban on Xinjiang Goods
08/02/2022
Clothing Coulture | Tips to Manage the U.S. Ban on Xinjiang Goods
The implementation of a recent U.S. government ban on goods from the Xinjiang region of China has many brands and retailers scrambling. There are no easy solutions to this complicated issue, however there are ways to manage through it. In this episode, CEO, and Chief Strategy Officer provide an overview of the ban and discuss options for brands and retailers to consider.
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Clothing Coulture | Nearshoring for Apparel Production
07/26/2022
Clothing Coulture | Nearshoring for Apparel Production
Traditionally apparel manufacturing has primarily been conducted in Asia, but recent supply chain issues have many shifting their sites. They are now researching nearshoring opportunities in the CAFTA region. In this episode of Clothing Coulture, Stars Design Group CEO, Bret Schitnker, and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), Emily Lane, discuss the opportunities and challenges that exist in the emerging CAFTA region and why Asia remains a strong manufacturing hub.
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Clothing Coulture | Incorporating Fashion Technology Into Workflows
07/12/2022
Clothing Coulture | Incorporating Fashion Technology Into Workflows
The fashion industry and technology have never been as interrelated as they are right now. Stars Design Group has been at the forefront of tech adoption, implementing 3D fashion design software Browzwear, nearly a decade ago, and adding new innovations that integrate into the structure of our business. “With all of the challenges that we see in the world, technology can really help, bridge the gaps that are forming.” Stars Design Group, CEO, Bret Schnitker says. As more companies start to incorporate new technologies to streamline workflow, many have questions. In this episode of the Clothing Coulture podcast, Schnitker, shares tips, best practices and advice when adding fashion technology to existing workflows.
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Clothing Coulture | The Business of Independent Fashion with Stefan Siegel
06/28/2022
Clothing Coulture | The Business of Independent Fashion with Stefan Siegel
Designers graduate with dreams of becoming the next multi-million dollar brand, most won’t make it, but not because of a lack of talent, Stefan Siegel is changing that. Siegel is the Founder of , an online community of designers disrupting the fashion industry and making an impact on sustainability through intentional design and manufacturing. , CEO, and Chief Strategy Officer, , discuss the organic growth of Not Just A Label in this episode of the Clothing Coulture podcast.
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Clothing Coulture | Filling the Gap in Apparel Industry Education
06/14/2022
Clothing Coulture | Filling the Gap in Apparel Industry Education
The apparel industry is in the middle of a disruption. Many in the workforce are leaving and taking their industry knowledge with them. These fundamental technical skills are the base knowledge of the industry and aren’t being taught in school. Add the infusion of technology and there is an ‘urgent need for a new blend of skills’ according to Cathy Cole, Co-Founder & CEO of , an online learning platform with deep verticals for the apparel industry. In this episode, , CEO Bret Schnitker and Chief Strategy Officer, Emily Lane discuss the evolution of the industry with Cathy Cole. EPISODE UPDATE: MOTIF will end operations at the conclusion of 2022 but some of their courses will continue to be offered on other learning platforms. Class descriptions and links to the courses can be found below. From basic to advanced courses, learn the different pattern design, production and visualization tools to become a real CLO 3D expert. Learn best practices to manage hybrid teams fostering inclusion and cohesion in complex environments. Build your pattern cutting knowledge and master the various key pattern skills and techniques. Introduction to Risk Assessment Learn the foundation of Risk Assessment and Management for facilities. Textile Appreciation This course covers the basics and gives a strong background in textile and fabric within the context of new technology and trends. The learner will walk away with an appreciation of the choices and trade offs when selecting fabrics.
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Clothing Coulture | The Impact of Data Privacy on eCommerce
05/31/2022
Clothing Coulture | The Impact of Data Privacy on eCommerce
Personal data is at the center of a big debate. Customers are doing everything they can to protect it, while companies, brands and retailers are hoping to capture and use it to create a personalized online experience. In this episode , CEO Bret Schnitker and Chief Strategy Officer, Emily Lane, discuss how data privacy is impacting ecommerce with Founder & CEO, Frank Faricy. Faricy's company, XGen.Ai uses customer behavior, not data, to create hyper-personalized ecommerce providing individually tailored shopping experiences.
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Clothing Coulture | Measuring Quality in Clothing Manufacturing
05/17/2022
Clothing Coulture | Measuring Quality in Clothing Manufacturing
Brands have varying definitions and standards of quality that depend on price point and perceived value to the customer. While quality is subjective, clear expectations of acceptable criteria need to be established prior to beginning production so that it can be measured throughout the process. In this episode, Stars Design Group CEO, Bret Schnitker and Chief Strategy Officer, Emily Lane, discuss how quality control (QC), quality assurance (QA) and acceptable quality limits (AQL) create a smoother production process and how to ensure a factory is meeting appropriate standards. Access the download on quality benchmarks, standards and points of inspection . For more information: VISIT us ONLINE: CONNECT with us on LINKEDIN: LIKE us on FACEBOOK: FOLLOW us on TWITTER: FOLLOW our INSTAGRAM:
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Clothing Coulture | Key Elements in Developing Performance Clothing
05/03/2022
Clothing Coulture | Key Elements in Developing Performance Clothing
Performance clothing requires attention to every detail, because it not only has to look good, it has to function to meet the needs of the activity. It is important to understand the variabilities and nuances of each component in order to make key design decisions. In this episode, Stars Design Group CEO, Bret Schnitker and Chief Strategy Officer, Emily Lane walk through the stages of the development process explaining the elements to consider when developing performance clothing. For more information: VISIT us ONLINE: CONNECT with us on LINKEDIN: LIKE us on FACEBOOK: FOLLOW us on TWITTER: FOLLOW our INSTAGRAM:
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Clothing Coulture Special Edition | Supporting Ukrainian Fashion Designers
04/26/2022
Clothing Coulture Special Edition | Supporting Ukrainian Fashion Designers
British designer, Keanan Duffty experienced the beauty and vibrance of Kyiv in October, 2021, just months before the invasion. Duffty was invited to attend Kyiv Art & Fashion Days, a celebration of the art and fashion community in Ukraine. One day after the war began, he immediately started planning a way to help the fashion designers he met on the trip. The result is Kyiv Art & Fashion Days NY. Designers will participate in a high profile runway show and static installation at NYFW to showcase their work and meet with buyers. In this special edition episode, Keanan discusses why the event is so important and how you can support these designers. MORE ABOUT: Keanan Duffty: Kyiv Art & Fashion Days: VISIT us ONLINE: FOLLOW us on LinkedIn: LIKE us on FACEBOOK: FOLLOW us on TWITTER: FOLLOW our INSTAGRAM: #fashionindustrypodcast #fashionpodcast #kyivdesigners #kyivNYFW
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