Robert and Marie Gray established St. John Knits International, a premier name in American fashion, more than 50 years ago. The company began when Marie, then a young fashion model, began to design dresses for herself. Her pieces gained attention from specialty retailers who began to place orders with her. Her husband recognized the business potential and began taking orders from exclusive stores. The company now employs more than 4,000 people and operates more than a dozen offices and manufacturing facilities worldwide. Its fashion collections are sole in nearly 30 counties and more than 30 retail boutiques nationwide. The company is well known for twisting and dying its own brand of wool and rayon yarns and finishing garments with handmade enameled buttons and jewelry. St. John s clothing includes special collections, sport clothing, evening outfits and a line of couture clothing. St. John Knits International is headquartered in Irvine, Calif.