Stanley Blacker


Stanley Blacker was a fashion designer. He liked to be called "Mr. Sportcoats" and he started his company, Stanley Blacker Inc. in 1955. He was among the first to sew his name on clothes and advertise them nationally. By doing so, he contributed to the creation of the designer trend.
His label today is supported by 14 licensees worldwide who manufacture moderately priced fashion apparel for men and women. Items include Raincoats, Topcoats, Outerwear, Leather & Suede Jackets, Loungewear, Scarves & Gloves, Hats, Shoes, Accessories, Luggage, and Cologne.

Early life

He was born in New York. His father was Morris Blacker. He studied business at New York University and design at the Philadelphia Textile School. He served in the army in World War II and then joined his father at clothing firm Blacker Brothers. When his father died, he sold his interest in that firm to start his own.

Personal life

He was married to Jean Valente, but that ended in divorce. he was originally married to Betty Blacker, mother of Gail and Patricia. Later and to his death, his companion was Vivienne Stevens. He had three daughters, Patricia, Gail, and Lauren, and one son, David.
Stanley was a philanthropist and served as a trustee of the Metropolitan Synagogue of New York for over 20 years.
He died in 2000 at the age of 79.