January 16, 2013

We’re pleased to announce that this year’s Design & Merchandising Distinguished Speaker will be Diane Ellis, President and COO of Brooks Brothers since 2007. Ms. Ellis will speak on April 10th.

Brooks Brothers, known for its classic styling, has been dressing men for nearly two centuries. Brooks Brothers is one of America's oldest retailers, specializing in men's suits and outerwear. Presidents Herbert Hoover, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, George H. W. Bush, and Bill Clinton were known to wear Brooks Brothers suits and President Lincoln was wearing a Brooks Brothers suit and overcoat when he was assassinated. The reinvigorated company now also sells women's and children's apparel. Brooks Brothers operates about 180 upscale retail stores and outlet locations in the US and 100-plus stores in 15 countries including China, Italy, and Japan. Brooks Brothers is owned by Retail Brand Alliance (RBA) and led by its colorful CEO Claudio Del Vecchio.