About the interview
The state of U.S. domestic textile and apparel manufacturing is gaining new momentum. On one hand, higher tariffs appear to be creating growing opportunities for bringing textile and apparel production back to the United States. On the other hand, data suggests that domestic production is not increasing despite these higher tariffs. So what exactly is happening with “Made in the USA” textiles and apparel? And can the U.S. remain a viable sourcing option for fashion brands and retailers going forward?
In the interview, John Sedivy, Vice President of Mount Vernon Mills, provided valuable first-hand industry insights into the current state and future outlook of U.S. textile manufacturing. John discussed the strengths and challenges facing domestic textile producers, including common misconceptions about the industry, the impact of recent tariff policies, and key barriers to expanding U.S. textile and apparel production. The interview also explored how sustainability is driving product innovation and creating new business opportunities for textile mills, as well as the critical role that export markets and regional trade agreements, such as CAFTA-DR and USMCA, play in supporting the U.S. textile industry. Finally, John shared his perspectives on workforce development and offered practical advice on how the textile industry can attract the next generation of talent, providing students with a deeper understanding of the evolving opportunities and challenges of “Made in the USA” textile manufacturing.
About John Sedivy
John Sedivy is a supply chain executive with deep experience across the apparel and textile industry, leading procurement, sourcing, planning, and inventory strategy for brands and mills. He blends analytical depth with broad supply‑chain fluency, using data‑driven thinking and systems expertise to strengthen supplier performance, improve planning accuracy, and streamline operations. John is known for recognizing patterns in complex environments, building tools that enhance decision‑making, and guiding teams through operational change. With a “never stop learning” mindset, he helps textile and apparel organizations operate with greater clarity, efficiency, and resilience.
John was featured in a recent Business Insider documentary about What ‘Made In America’ Jeans Actually Look Like
Moderators
Emilie Delaye is a Graduate Instructor in Fashion and Apparel Studies at the University of Delaware. Her academic and professional interests focus on global supply chains, sourcing strategy, sustainability, and social responsibility within the fashion and apparel industry. Through her research, teaching, and industry engagement, Emilie explores how businesses can build more transparent, ethical, and resilient supply chains while creating positive environmental and social impact. Emilie is also the co-author of the 2026 Fashion Industry Benchmarking Study published by the United States Fashion Industry Association and founder of Nova Medical Wearables.
Sheng Lu is Professor and Graduate Director of Fashion and Apparel Studies at the University of Delaware. He is also an Honors College Faculty Fellow at UD.
FASH455 Global Apparel & Textile Trade and Sourcing 