St. John Knits Sews Up 32% Increase in Profits

St. John Knits Inc. said that profit and sales surged in the fiscal year ended Oct. 29.

The Irvine-based women’s clothing company reported a 32% gain in profit to $19.6 million, or $2.38 a year, from $14.9 million, or $1.82 a share, for the prior year. Sales rose 26% to $161.8 million from $128 million.

Earnings for the fourth quarter increased 22% to $6.2 million, or 75 cents a share, from $5.1 million, or 62 cents a share, for the same period last year. Sales increased 23% to $47.9 million from $38.8 million.