Jill Stuart is an American fashion designer based in New York City, where she has been operating since 1988. She established her eponymous label in 1993. She also has a significant international client base, particularly in Japan.
Stuart's parents George and Lynn Stuart worked in Manhattan's Garment District and created the label Mister Pants, which was an early creator of women's tailored trousers and trouser suits in men's fabrics. Lynn Stuart also had her own higher end label, and became known for creating outfits for actresses including Lucille Ball, Natalie Wood and Sheila MacRae.
Stuart attended Manhattan's Dalton School and later Rhode Island School of Design.
Stuart sold her first collection to Bloomingdale's by the age of 15 – suede hobo bags and silver and leather chokers. She opened her first store in 1988, an Upper East Side boutique focusing on accessories such as belts and handbags. By 1990, her stoles, bags and fur accessories could be found in stores such as Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman Her eponymous label was launched in 1993 and included Skinclothes – a range of leather garments, such as slip dresses, kilts, jeans and jackets.