Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Lane.
Hi Emily, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Early on, I recognized that I have a natural instinct for business development—building meaningful relationships, understanding what motivates people, and creating strategies that help them move toward their goals. That instinct, paired with curiosity and a willingness to listen deeply, has carried me across a wide range of industries, including technology, fine art, rare instruments, and ultimately to my greatest passion: fashion.
Along the way, I’ve taken risks—accepting roles and pursuing projects that others advised against, but that I felt strongly were the right decisions. Trusting my instincts has consistently proven to be one of my greatest strengths. Even the hard lessons have been valuable ones, sharpening my perspective and strengthening my confidence as a leader. I’m driven by a desire to keep learning, to ask better questions, and to build work that’s not only successful but meaningful. That entrepreneurial mindset continues to shape where I’m headed and how I show up in the communities I serve.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It certainly hasn’t been a smooth road, and I think it would be naïve to believe that anyone’s journey truly is. One of the most consistent challenges I faced (until my current role) was being discounted. As a woman, I was often labeled as too young, too old, or questioned for one reason or another, even after proving myself repeatedly through results.
Rather than letting that slow me down, I stayed focused on the work itself. I continued to do good work, lead with heart, and stay committed to the vision I believed in. Those experiences strengthened my resilience and sharpened my leadership. Today, I’m grateful to be in a role where I’m fully trusted to implement my plans and collaborate with an exceptional executive team. That level of partnership and belief is powerful, and it’s made all the difference.
As you know, we’re big fans of Stars Design Group. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At its core, my work is rooted in building brands and businesses with clarity, integrity, and intention. Through Stars Design Group, a global apparel design and manufacturing house, we partner with brands, retailers, and businesses to bring apparel collections to life—from concept through production. With our home office based in Saint Louis and teams positioned worldwide, we offer a truly global perspective paired with hands‑on execution.
Stars Design Group specializes in full‑cycle apparel development, including design, technical development, sourcing, and ethical manufacturing. We are known for our commitment to better quality and for a unique capability that truly sets us apart: deep expertise across all categories of apparel and fashion. Being equally skilled across the full spectrum of categories allows us to support diverse brands while maintaining consistency, craftsmanship, and vision.
What differentiates us is our people‑first, relationship‑driven approach combined with rigorous execution. We listen carefully, understand our partners’ goals, and build thoughtful strategies that balance creativity with commercial reality. We don’t believe in shortcuts or trend‑chasing. We believe in building products and brands that last.
Beyond the product itself, one of the things I’m most proud of brand‑wise is the media arm we established in 2020. Under this umbrella, we launched Clothing Coulture, a podcast now listened to worldwide by industry leaders, educators, and professionals across every facet of the apparel industry. We’ve since expanded into a magazine layered with meaningful, actionable insight, and a book that is complete and scheduled for release later this year. This platform has become a trusted resource within the industry, and I’m incredibly proud of the role it plays in education, connection, and elevating the conversation around fashion and manufacturing.
Ultimately, what I want readers to know is that Stars Design Group is more than a vendor. We’re a strategic partner and an industry resource. Everything we do is intentional, rooted in respect for the people who make the garments, the people who wear them, and the future of the industry as a whole.
How do you think about luck?
Luck (in the traditional sense) hasn’t really played a significant role in my life or business. To be honest, I wouldn’t say I am someone who is particularly charmed by good luck. That said, the idea that “luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity” resonates deeply with my experience.
There have been many moments when things didn’t feel aligned, and instead of walking away, I kept working, kept refining my skills, and stayed open to learning and evolution. I’ve found that staying curious, prepared, and aware allows opportunities to reveal themselves more clearly over time.
I’ve also learned that persistent resistance is worth paying attention to. When you’re forced to fight too many obstacles, it’s important to pause and question whether the path itself is correct, or whether it’s time to adjust direction. That discernment has been just as valuable as perseverance.
Ultimately, I believe growth comes from a willingness to learn, adapt, and evolve continuously. What may look like luck from the outside has really been the result of showing up consistently, staying open to the signs, and being ready when the right opportunities appear.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.starsdesigngroup.com
- Instagram: @starsdesigngroup
- Facebook: @stars design group
- LinkedIn: @stars design group and @emily trista lane
- Youtube: @clothing coulture and @stars design group
- Other: https://www.clothingcoulture.com
