- Styles of the Clothing We Wear (or Wore Back in ’81)
Men’s Suits
Over the years, styles of men’s suits have fluctuated considerably; the pendulum of customer taste will undoubtedly continue to revive the double-breasted suit.
Meanwhile, the sewing equipment used to produce these suits has continued to advance in design.
One of the earliest major advances in men’s suit construction came with the Lewis blindstitch machine in the early 1920s, eliminating many expensive and time-consuming handstitching operations.
The future will certainly see long-forgotten design elements revived in men’s suits, but the machines used to make them will always represent the latest in technological design.
Blind stitching remains a foundational technique in modern men's tailored clothing, both in commercial RTW (ready-to-wear) manufacturing and high-end bespoke tailoring. It secures hems and structural linings internally so that no thread shows on the exterior face fabric. A blind stitch creates an invisible, clean finish that hides thread lines. It keeps fabrics smooth, reduces bulk at the edges, and allows garments to move naturally without pulling or puckering.
More About the Blindstitch Machine
Early machines were specialized industrial units built by the Lewis Invisible Stitch Machine Company of St. Louis, Missouri. They revolutionized garment manufacturing by automating blind stitching, invisible hems, and button sewing, and eliminating visible exterior stitches.
The early Lewis stitch sewing machines were specialty industrial machines built primarily for the garment trade to perform invisible blind stitching and heavy-duty, single-thread chain-stitch button sewing.
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Key Characteristics • Function: Designed to create hidden hems (blind stitching) or fasten flat and shank buttons securely without the thread showing through on the garment's outer face. • Stitch Type: Utilized single-thread chain stitches or specialized lockstitch variations that only pierced or caught a fraction of the top layer of fabric. • Design & Build: Featured heavy-duty cast metal frames with distinct crinkle finishes and multiple localized oil ports to maintain high-speed factory operations. Key Benefits of a Blind Stitch • Clean Look: Stitches stay hidden on the face of the fabric. • Flexible Hold: The thread stretches slightly with the fabric. • Less Bulk: It keeps lapels, hems, and cuffs thin and flat. • Hand-Finished Feel: High-end suits use it to show fine tailoring quality. Where Tailors Use It • Trouser Hems: Bottom edges look neat without visible lines. • Jacket Cuffs: Sleeve ends stay smooth and sharp. • Lapel Roll: It helps inner layers shape the collar gently.
Visit www.zund.com to discover the latest Zünd innovations in industrial digital cutting technology: specialized tooling for a perfect cut, no matter what materials go into your sewn products, a full range of hardware and software options all geared toward easy, efficient workflow automation. Zünd has it all! What’s more, multifunctional cutting systems from Zünd are modular by design and easily adaptable as your cutting needs grow or change. Find the cutting solution perfectly tailored to your needs, present and future!
Contact Zund America anytime for a personal demonstration, or visit us in 2026 in person at CamX, September 21-24, Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, GA • Printing United Expo, September 23-25, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV • SEMA Show, November 3-6, Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV.
Zünd cutters are entirely modular, the configuration possibilities virtually endless. The Product Finder helps you find what you are looking for more quickly. Find the cutter that suits you.
Industry Opinion
Are Higher Tariffs Going to Be a New Reality?
By Nironjan Roy, Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist and Banker
The trade war—which U.S. President Donald Trump, after coming to the White House for a second term, declared by imposing higher tariffs—is neither ending nor easing.
Over the last two years, threats to impose higher tariffs, similar responses from counterparts, negotiations, signing off on some agreements, and even court cases have all centered on the higher-tariffs issue, but the situation has not been normal. Rather, the new wave of higher tariffs has escalated, as recent negotiations with Canada have failed, inviting higher tariffs from both countries.
When President Trump was moving ahead with the decision to raise tariffs, a perception developed that they would end after his departure, which is now gradually fading.
Many business leaders now believe the higher tariffs imposed by President Trump will not end soon; instead, they may persist for a long time and become a regular feature of cross-border trade. However, some people think otherwise and argue that the situation may change in 2029, when President Trump's tenure ends and a new administration takes office. But some people who oppose this idea say that all politicians, regardless of party affiliation, need money, and President Trump has created a strong source for it; future presidents will follow. As reported in the media, one U.S. business leader was asked what will happen after Trump leaves office, and he responded, “Who knows?” He further said, “Politicians need to raise funds to pay for all the things that they do, and it’s hard for them to look at a stream of revenue and turn it down.” Read More>
C and C Enterprise has teamed up with JACK, one of the world’s finest industrial sewing machine manufacturers, to form Jack of the Americas. Jack of the Americas distributes JACK machines throughout North America, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean Basin. When you buy from Jack of The Americas, we don’t just ship you a box! We help you get set up and answer any questions you may have! With over 100 years of combined experience in the industrial sewn products industry, we are proud to say that we are one of the world’s leading industrial sewing products authorities and are here to serve you! Not sure if Jack is right for you? Click on the button below for a short video showing off some of our machines. Watch it and see what Jack can do for you!
Since 1898, Consew has designed and manufactured the most reliable machines in the sewing industry. Today, Consew has one of the largest varieties of sewing, cutting, and pressing equipment; as well as an extensive line of supplies related to the sewn products industry. From standard walking foot machines for upholstery to specialty 4 needle lockstitch machines for parachutes, from long-arm zig-zag (up to 30”) machines for boat sails to extra heavy-duty machines for webbing, Consew has it all. Our machines are well-designed for sewing leather, canvas, shoes, saddles, mattresses, tents, tarps, and sails, as well as jeans and other garments. With offices in New Jersey, Miami, and Los Angeles, as well as a distribution network throughout the world, Consew can quickly supply and service the machines you need.
Industry News
U.S. Launches $480 Million Textile Program to Bolster Defense Textile Manufacturing
The United States is launching a major new textile manufacturing initiative worth up to US$480 million. The move comes as it looks to modernize domestic production and reduce weaknesses in its textile supply chain. This is a landmark award — and a major opportunity to strengthen U.S. textile manufacturing, innovation, and the domestic supply chain.
North Carolina State University has been selected to lead FutureTEX, a ten-year program initially backed by US$36 million in first-year funding and carrying a potential funding ceiling of US$480 million over the decade.
Why NC State?
This is particularly significant for North Carolina because the state has a long history in textiles. At the same time, NC State's Wilson College of Textiles is a major center for textile engineering, materials science, and manufacturing research.
The Textile Futures Institute
The Textile Futures Institute will be housed in the Textile Technology Center at Gaston College’s Kimbrell Campus in Belmont, North Carolina, with core partners at NC State University’s Wilson College of Textiles in Raleigh, Drexel University Center for Functional Fabrics in Philadelphia, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Georgia Tech in Atlanta, and Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center (ISAIC) in Detroit. The initiative brings together government, university, and nonprofit partners to advance textile manufacturing technologies for military and domestic applications. FutureTEX will champion workforce development and modernize facilities and equipment to increase U.S. competitiveness. Read More>
Diamond Needle Corp., Founded in 1951, is one of the world’s largest distributors of sewing machine needles. Our alliance with ORGAN NEEDLE CO. of Japan, as their exclusive North American distributor, gives us the backing of the world’s leading quality maker of sewing machine needles.
ISAIC Announces Partnership with TUKATECH
The Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center (ISAIC), a Detroit, Michigan-based nonprofit and national resource for textile and apparel manufacturing, has announced a partnership with TUKATECH, a global fashion technology solutions provider, to launch a TUKAcenter in Detroit.
The TUKAcenter will provide brands, designers, and entrepreneurs with access to leading digital tools and expertise, creating new opportunities for product development and apparel manufacturing in Detroit.
By lowering barriers for startups and growing brands and expanding our support for major national companies, the TUKAcenter will strengthen Detroit’s apparel ecosystem and attract new business to the region. Read More>
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The Merrow Group consists of three unique divisions, all designed to support and accelerate the growth of soft-goods manufacturing. One of these divisions is the Wholesale Group: Superior Sewing Machine & Supply. Superior, the largest wholesale supplier of more than 72,000 products to sewing factories across North, Central, and South America, plays a vital role in supporting the broader manufacturing ecosystem. In an industry where precision, speed, and reliability are crucial for maintaining competitive production, having access to in-stock items is not just convenient; it is essential. Superior operates a network of 1,600 resellers that support approximately 70,000 factories across North, Central, and South America. This extensive network enables Superior to swiftly introduce new technologies and products that can significantly enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of soft goods manufacturing.
U.S. Reshoring Momentum Builds Despite Policy and Workforce Challenges
U.S. manufacturers are moving more production and sourcing toward the United States. Still, policy uncertainty, import price competition, and skilled-worker shortages are limiting the pace of reshoring, according to the 2026 USA Reshoring Survey from the Reshoring Initiative® and Regions Recruiting®.
The second annual study surveyed 249 manufacturers—118 original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and 131 contract manufacturers (CMs). It found stronger reshoring activity among OEMs, a growing pipeline of reshoring opportunities for domestic suppliers, and substantial planned U.S. investment. 2026 USA Reshoring Survey Report
Key findings• 36% of OEMs had reshored or were actively engaged in additional reshoring in 2026, up from 29% in 2025.• 32% of CMs were currently quoting reshoring projects—double the 16% reported in 2025—and 79% said at least some customers had discussed reshoring in the prior year.• 63% of OEMs planned U.S. capital expenditures in 2026 or 2027 to support reshoring or other domestic expansion.• 57% of OEMs named policy uncertainty as their primary challenge in the current U.S. trade-policy environment. Market pricing impact was a distant second at 15%.
Read More>
Lectra Strengthens its Partnership with Caron Technology
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After nearly two decades of collaboration, Lectra and Caron Technology are taking a new step forward to offer a complete range of cutting room preparation systems. Lectra acquired 70% of Caron Technology’s equity in August 2026 with an option to increase its stake to 100% by 2029.
At the forefront of innovation since its founding in 1973, Lectra provides industrial intelligence technology solutions—combining SaaS software, cutting equipment, data, and associated services—to players in the fashion, automotive, and furniture industries.
Lectra announces the strengthening of its industrial alliance with Caron Technology, an Italian company founded in 1993 that specializes in preparation systems used before cutting. This milestone reflects a trusted relationship that has grown between the two companies over nearly two decades. Read More>
C and C Enterprise is the United States agency for Highlead sewing machines. These high-quality machines are available for your sewing needs and are sold only through local dealers and distributors. If you want more information on the Highlead brand, please feel free to contact us. www.candcenterprise.com
Henderson Sewing Machine Co, founded in 1968, is a global supplier of industrial sewing machines, sewing machine parts, and custom automated sewing machines for the SEWING PRODUCTS INDUSTRY. We have grown by offering customers the highest quality products at competitive prices with superior customer service. We also have a cutting-edge engineering team that designs custom automated systems to fill any need you may have.
Cone Denim to Exit its Denim Manufacturing Operations in China
Cone Denim, a leading global denim innovator, today announced strategic transformation plans designed to better serve the global denim fabric market.
The plans include strengthening Cone Denim’s focus on its established manufacturing platform in Mexico and the planned exit from denim manufacturing operations in China by year-end 2026. This repositioning follows a comprehensive review of the global denim market, Cone’s manufacturing footprint, customer sourcing needs, and long-term business strategy.
The decision follows careful consideration of economic, market, and geopolitical factors that have increasingly affected the competitiveness and long-term sustainability of operating denim manufacturing in China.
Changing global trade dynamics, evolving customer sourcing strategies, cost pressures, supply chain considerations, and broader geopolitical developments all contributed to this determination. Read More>
Supply Chain
U.S. Claims Dozens of Countries Helped China Evade Tariffs
More than 40 countries helped China evade U.S. tariffs by routing exports through nations with lower import levies, according to a report the Trump administration released August 13.
The report, titled “The Great Transshipment Scam,” says the U.S. faces “a growing challenge from the illegal transshipment of goods through third countries to evade applicable tariffs and other trade remedies,” describing the strategy as “fraud disguised in paperwork.”
The report analyzes the economic impact of trade transshipment on U.S. manufacturing, GDP, federal revenues, and employment, and frames it as a danger to the U.S. economy. Read More>
Crowley, Port Houston Connect Central America and the U.S. Gulf with New Weekly Shipping Service
Crowley, a global leader in logistics, marine and energy solutions, today announced a new weekly container service connecting Port Houston to Santo Tomás de Castilla, Guatemala, and Puerto Cortés, Honduras – two of Central America’s largest and fastest-growing trade gateways.
The Gulf-Central America Express Service makes its first Houston call on Sept. 10 with Thursday departures. Crowley’s vessels will carry dry and refrigerated containers that safely transport a range of fresh produce, apparel, industrial products, and consumer goods from sea to land. The range of sizes includes 53-foot containers that maximize intermodal efficiency in the markets. Read More>
Industry Events
Technical Textiles and Nonwovens Came Together in Raleigh
Techtextil North America 2026 (TTNA) welcomed professionals from across the technical textiles and nonwovens industries to a show filled with innovation, collaboration, and discovery.
For three days – August 4-6 – the Raleigh Convention Center became the meeting place for the technical textiles and nonwovens industries. Thousands of professionals came together to discover new products, experience live demonstrations, strengthen business relationships, exchange ideas, and explore the technologies shaping what's next.
The exhibit hall came to life as attendees connected with exhibitors, explored new technologies, attended educational sessions, and exchanged ideas that will help shape the future of the industries.
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Symposium sessions and Tech Talks designed to address today's challenges while preparing the industry for tomorrow.
Innovation Across the Show Floor
Exhibitors showcased their advancements ranging from high-performance fibers and textile testing to nonwovens research, manufacturing technologies, and product development. Visitors explored advanced material solutions, learned about cutting-edge research and workforce initiatives, and connected with physical properties testers to discover testing technologies that help improve product quality and performance.
Education That Drives the Industry Forward Industry experts led a full day of Symposium sessions and Tech Talks. Discussions explored topics including transportation textiles, nonwovens, reshoring, digital product passports, advanced manufacturing, and next-generation materials—giving attendees practical insights they can apply after the show. Read More>
Education That Drives the Industry Forward Industry experts led a full day of Symposium sessions and Tech Talks. Discussions explored topics including transportation textiles, nonwovens, reshoring, digital product passports, advanced manufacturing, and next-generation materials—giving attendees practical insights they can apply after the show. Read More>
Join SEAMS for its Fall Networking Conference in New Orleans, LA. You'll have a fabulous time and embrace the culture of New Orleans at this conference. Staying in the heart of New Orleans, you will be right on the corner of Canal and Bourbon Streets. You'll have a wonderful reception at the famous Antoine’s, a WOVEN Women’s Soiree, and with an extra night’s stay, you can join us for a Tour and Dinner at Mardi Gras World. SEAMS will, of course, have our standard array of informative and enjoyable line-up of speakers and invaluable Networking opportunities. Don’t miss out – Register Now!
SEAMS Fall Networking Conference • Astor Crowne Plaza • New Orleans, LA • September 15 - 17, 2026
https://seams.org/event/seams-fall-networking-conference-3/
