St. John Knits Inc.: The Irvine women’s...

St. John Knits Inc.: The Irvine women’s clothing company reported a 40% rise in profit for the first quarter compared to the year-earlier figure, to $2.8 million, or 34 cents a share, from $2 million, or 24 cents a share. Sales for the quarter ended Jan. 30 were up 31%, to $27.3 million from $20.8 million.