MICHAEL STARS
Michael Stars was founded by Michael Cohen and Suzanne Lerner in 1986.
Hailing from Cape Town, a young Michael Cohen began his career in the clothing industry by establishing an agency that distributed London-based fashion lines.
Dismayed by the state of his country, he had an opportunity to leave apartheid South Africa in the late ‘70s and came to America.
Ten years after arriving in the US, he walked into the showroom of Suzanne Lerner, a natural-born entrepreneur in the apparel industry. It was this first meeting that ignited both their business and future marriage.
In the late '80s, inspired by the graphic designs of a local artist, the Michael Stars label was born.
Thank you for supporting our women-led & owned company!
When I co-founded the brand with my husband, Michael, in 1986 I never knew how it would evolve into something so purpose-driven and how much impact we would have as a result. Michael Stars began with that iconic one-sized tee and now focuses on so much more.
Through our Michael Stars Foundation we’ve focused on equality, and have been supporting grassroots organizations for over 20 years. We also continue to produce the majority of our garments locally here in LA to ensure quality production and fair wages for those making your clothes.
I love hearing from our customers, nothing puts a smile on my face like the stories from women all over the country about their first Michael Stars tee.

Co-Founder & President