The garment industry is rocked by a violent strike.

Jay's sister-in-law attempts suicide, he and his wife separate and his long-time friend is murdered.

Jay neglects his wife when he becomes absorbed in his business and in another woman, fashion designer Eva Meyers.

Blackman's competitors threaten to put him and his successful shop out of business.

Jay and Rhoda want to set up their own dress shop---with her father's money. 

A New Yorker's climb in the garment industry opens in 1938, as broke but aggressive Jay Blackman meets a dress-shop manager.