Clothing Coulture

Clothing Brief Ep 37 | Paris Fashion Week, Saks and Tariffs 18.06.2026 15min

Designed to keep you informed without the fluff, this series delivers sharp, essential updates to help you stay ahead in fashion and business. This week, Bret and Emily discuss Paris Fashion Week 26, Saks Stores Closing, and Tariffs #clothingbrief #fashionnews

Clothing Brief Ep 36 | New York Fashion Week, J.Crew and India Tariffs 16.06.2026 13min

Designed to keep you informed without the fluff, this series delivers sharp, essential updates to help you stay ahead in fashion and business. This week, Bret and Emily discuss New York Fashion Week, J.Crew, and their definition of scarcity, India Tariffs and the American people paying more because of them. #clothingbrief #fashionnews

Clothing Brief Ep 35 | Black History Month, Grammys, & Bridal Closing out Couture Week 12.06.2026 11min

Designed to keep you informed without the fluff, this series delivers sharp, essential updates to help you stay ahead in fashion and business. This week, Bret and Emily discuss the celebration of Black history and creativity at Neiman Marcus in St. Louis, the 2026 red carpet looks at the Grammys, the return of Bridal wear closing out Spring 2026 Couture Week, and more. #clothingbrief #fashionnews

Lessons From 26 Years in the Fashion Industry 09.06.2026 26min

What does it really take to build a successful apparel company that can solve problems across every corner of the fashion industry? In this season five finale of Clothing Coulture, hosts Emily Lane and Bret Schnitker pull back the curtain on the story behind Stars Design Group and the lessons learned from nearly three decades in apparel manufacturing, sourcing, product development, and consulting. From launching the company after leaving a major retailer to building a global manufacturing network spanning multiple product categories and countries, Bret shares how adaptability, expertise, and long-term relationships have fueled the company's growth. The conversation dives into real-world case studies that showcase the complexity of apparel production, including fabric failures, dye issues, fit challenges, performance testing, and large-scale manufacturing problems that brands face every day. Bret also discusses how consulting has become a natural extension of Stars Design Group's mission, helping brands, retailers, and entrepreneurs navigate an increasingly complicated apparel landscape. As Clothing Coulture wraps up its fifth season, the episode also reflects on the growth of the podcast as a global educational resource and offers practical advice for apparel professionals on embracing feedback, adapting to change, and staying connected to their customer communit.

Clothing Brief Ep 34 | Valentino, Pitti Uomo and Couch x Sims 4 22.05.2026 12min

Date: 1/20/2026 Designed to keep you informed without the fluff, this series delivers sharp, essential updates to help you stay ahead in fashion and business. This week, Bret and Emily discuss the death of Valentino, this year's Pittio Uomo, Couch x Sims 4, and more. #clothingbrief #fashionnews

Clothing Brief Ep 33 | NRF Summit, High Profits, and Saks 20.05.2026 15min

Date: 1/13/2026 Designed to keep you informed without the fluff, this series delivers sharp, essential updates to help you stay ahead in fashion and business. #clothingbrief #fashionnews

Clothing Brief Ep 32 | Fabletics, Louis Vuitton, and China Tariffs 19.05.2026 9min

Date: 1/6/2026 Designed to keep you informed without the fluff, this series delivers sharp, essential updates to help you stay ahead in fashion and business. #clothingbrief #fashionnews

How Fashion Brands Source Overseas the Right Way 12.05.2026 45min

Why do so many apparel brands manufacture offshore, and what does it actually take to do it right? In this episode of Clothing Coulture, Bret Schnitker and Emily Lane break down the realities of global sourcing, from shrinking U.S. production capacity to the hidden costs and risks brands often overlook. They explain why offshore manufacturing remains essential for many brands due to labor costs, infrastructure, scale, and consumer price expectations. The conversation also dives into how different countries specialize in different product categories, why diversification across sourcing regions matters, and how shifting politics, tariffs, and economics continue to reshape the supply chain. Listeners also get practical guidance on vetting factories, understanding MOQs, timelines, FOB vs DDP pricing, and why chasing the cheapest quote can create serious quality, compliance, and delivery issues. This episode is a valuable roadmap for emerging brands and established companies looking to source smarter. Understanding Origins For Production Minimums Document

Merino Wool Is More Than Luxury, It's a U.S. Opportunity 21.04.2026 39min

What if the future of luxury fashion starts on a sheep farm in Missouri? In this fascinating field episode, Bret Schnitker and Emily Lane visit Mesta Meadows Ranch with founder Ed Crowley to explore why Merino wool may be one of fashion's most undervalued premium materials. From live sheep shearing to fiber science, sustainability, traceability, and American manufacturing opportunities, this conversation connects agriculture directly to the future of apparel. Ed breaks down why Merino wool outperforms synthetics through thermal regulation, moisture wicking, odor resistance, durability, and softness. He also shares how genetics, climate, and responsible farming improve wool quality over time. The episode expands into bigger industry conversations around rebuilding U.S. textile processing, farm-to-skin brands, and why American-grown luxury fibers deserve more attention. As a bonus, Ed shares how dairy sheep inspired a new sheep milk ice cream brand made on-site, proving innovation can come from every part of the value chain. Connect with Mesta Meadows: https://mestameadows.com/

Why Fashion Needs a Voice in Washington with Hilary Jochmans 07.04.2026 39min

In this enlightening episode of Clothing Coulture, hosts Emily Lane and Bret Schnitker delve into the intricate dynamics of fashion policy with Hilary Jochmans, the founder of Politically in Fashion. The conversation navigates the complexities of advocacy within the sector and the crucial role of legislative education in the evolving landscape of fashion. With the congressional session in full swing, the timing is perfect for brands and individuals to engage in dialogue about sustainable practices, labor rights, and the global supply chain. Hilary Jochmans spotlights the necessity for deeper industry involvement in public policy discussions, emphasizing education as a tool for empowerment. Despite historical disengagement, the fashion industry finds itself amid regulatory and legislative changes that cannot be ignored. From tariffs impacting apparel to calls for reshoring production facilities, the multifaceted challenges require strategic advocacy and informed collaboration. Jochmans argues for the creation of a 'fashion czar' to holistically address legislative issues impacting the industry, urging stakeholders to adopt a unified front in political advocacy. Connect with Hilary: https://politicallyinfashion.com

Deborah Weinswig on the Future of Retail and AI 17.03.2026 1godz 6min

Technology is transforming retail faster than ever, but the brands that win will be the ones that combine innovation with human connection. In this episode of Clothing Coulture, Bret Schnitker and Emily Lane welcome back Deborah Weinswig, CEO and Founder of Coresight Research, to explore how AI, supply chain shifts, and evolving consumer behavior are reshaping the retail landscape. Drawing on insights from her work at Coresight Research, Deborah reflects on the biggest takeaways from 2025 and what brands and retailers should prepare for in 2026. From tariffs and major retail bankruptcies to the continued growth of value retailers, the industry is navigating both volatility and opportunity. For brands navigating a complex global market, this episode offers practical insights into where technology is delivering real results and where experimentation will define the future of retail. Resources: Deborah Weinswig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahweinswig/ Coresight Research: https://coresight.com

Clothing Brief Ep 30 | Versace, Stella McCartney and Pantone's Color of the Year 14.03.2026 15min

Date: 12/9/2025 Designed to keep you informed without the fluff, this series delivers sharp, essential updates to help you stay ahead in fashion and business. This week, Bret and Emily discuss changes at Versace, Stella McCartney x H&M, and Pantone's Color of the Year. #clothingbrief #fashionnews

Clothing Brief Ep 29 | Zegna Group, Black Friday and Human Made 03.03.2026 14min

Date: 11/25/2025 Designed to keep you informed without the fluff, this series delivers sharp, essential updates to help you stay ahead in fashion and business. This week, Bret and Emily discuss changes at Zegna Group, Black Friday, Human Made IPO, and more. #clothingbrief #fashionnews

Bonus Episode: Woman in Leadership with Eva Hughes of Former Vogue Latin America 03.03.2026 43min

As part of a special relaunch of Clothing Coulture and in celebration of Women's History Month, we're revisiting this inspiring conversation with Eva Hughes, former CEO of Condé Nast in Latin America and Mexico. Eva joins Bret Schnitker and Emily Lane to discuss her experiences as a woman in leadership and the challenges she faced in a male-dominated industry. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, personal growth, and confidence, while sharing insights on managing personal and professional life, embracing uncertainty, and the power of vulnerability. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a true powerhouse in the fashion world.

Clothing Brief Ep 28 | Teen Vogue, Balmain, Target 27.02.2026 14min

Date: 11/11/2025 Designed to keep you informed without the fluff, this series delivers sharp, essential updates to help you stay ahead in fashion and business. This week, Bret and Emily discuss the end of Teen Vogue, Balmain, and layoffs at Target. #clothingbrief #fashionnews

Clothing Brief Ep 27 | Tariffs, Korean Giant Sae‑A Trading and 3D printed shows. 23.02.2026 18min

Date: 11/4/2025 Designed to keep you informed without the fluff, this series delivers sharp, essential updates to help you stay ahead in fashion and business. This week, Bret and Emily discuss Tariffs, Korean Giant Sae‑A Trading, and 3D printed shows.

Seasonless Fashion Strategy: Reduce Markdown Risk in 2026 17.02.2026 24min

In this episode of Clothing Coulture, hosts Bret Schnitker and Emily Lane break down why fashion brands must rethink their economic strategies for 2026 as growth slows and costs rise. Instead of chasing volume and expansion, they argue the new winning playbook is margin protection, operational efficiency, and resilience. They explore how consumer behavior is shifting toward fewer purchases, higher quality, and stronger alignment with brand values, pushing companies to rethink pricing, storytelling, and product strategy. The conversation covers practical ways to improve profitability without cutting quality, including smarter assortment planning, tighter SKU counts, supplier negotiation, and better demand forecasting to reduce overproduction and markdowns. The episode also highlights the rise of seasonless collections, modular design, and smaller, more frequent drops as strategies that reduce inventory risk while keeping customers engaged. Bret and Emily close with a reminder that long-term success in 2026 will come from building systems, empowering mid-level teams, and staying focused on adaptability instead of growth for growth's sake.

Celebrating 100 Episodes of the Clothing Coulture Podcast 03.02.2026 17min

Join hosts Bret Schnitker and Emily Lane as they celebrate the 100th episode of the Clothing Coulture podcast. Reflecting on five seasons, they share memorable moments with industry icons like Stuart Weitzman, Nicole Fishelli, and innovative leaders like Andrea Ferris of CiCLO. The episode highlights the podcast's evolution, its global impact, and meaningful connections formed through engaging discussions about fashion innovation and sustainability. Listeners also contributed favorite moments, showcasing the podcast's influence and reach within the fashion industry. Tune in for a heartfelt journey through their podcast milestones.

Fashion Industry Strategy: How Brands Win Heading Into 2026 20.01.2026 29min

Explore how fashion brands can thrive in 2026 with hosts Bret Schnitker and Emily Lane as they dissect strategies focused on optimization, technological integration, and supply chain collaboration. Delve into the impacts of AI in fashion and learn how to balance innovation with creativity. Understand consumer psychology trends and how building trust and maintaining brand integrity are vital. With insights on smart growth, efficiency, and adaptability, this episode provides a roadmap for navigating the swiftly evolving fashion landscape, emphasizing doing better rather than more for sustainable success.

Debunking Myths About The Apparel Industry 09.12.2025 29min

Bret Schnitker and Emily Lane explore prevalent myths in the fashion industry, tackling misconceptions about sustainability, overseas manufacturing, and the perceived superficiality of fashion. They discuss the reality of industry roles beyond design, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and marketing for success. Discover the intricate layers of the fashion realm and the vital role it plays globally, as well as the dedication of industry professionals fostering positive change.