Part 18 - Henri-Lloyd x
In 1925, Henri Strzelecki was born in Poland, Brodnica; falling halfway between Gdansk and Warsaw.
During World War II, Strzelecki became decorated with medals from Poland and Britain, after fleeing to Italy, to fight with The Polish Second Corps, especially in Bologna, due to really "getting up the noses" of the Nazis.
Post-War, he modestly became known as "Mr. Henri", due to the fact, that many people could not pronounce his surname properly, whilst studying Textiles & Design, in Rainy Manchester.
The Precipitation City, had naturally led Henri to garner another affectionate monicker, in the form of "Waterproof".
It also helped him famously form a loyal and visionary alliance, with Financier, Angus Lloyd.
On a personal level, he married his Wife, Sheila, after they met in a Double Two shirt factory, in 1952.
Then the future business of Henri-Lloyd, officially established itself in 1963, first operating from a converted Chapel, in Salford, introducing innovatory designs, via Zippers, Velcro, Goretex, Nylon, Harnesses et al.
All of which, would always go on to highly compliment each piece of safe and smart apparel, for both men and women.
Henri went on to receive an MBE, for his dedicated services to Fashion (1985), a Personality of The Year, Marine Award (1987) and a Gold Cross of Merit, from the President of Poland (1990).
The Henri-Lloyd Company received the Queen's Award, for Export Achievement, consecutively, in 1986 and 1987.
From the Sea, Golf Clubs, to the Countryside.
From the Terraces, to the Pubs and Clubs.
Sir Francis Chichester - (1968).
The Great British Sailing Team - (1972).
Clare Francis - (1976).
The 1980's Paninaro Subculture Movement.
Dennis Conner - (1987).
The Iconic Black Label (1994, via Massimo Goggi).
Sir Ben Ainslie's core involvement (since 1996).
Noel Gallagher - (1997).
Just some of the major examples, of a truly serious backdrop, for the crowned wreath label, in the form of clothing and as a global brand.
Sadly, Mr. Henri Strzelecki died, at the age of 87, in 2012.
Life pursuits would not be the same, without the quintessential levels of creative quality and powerful protection injected, into each magnificent garment.
Stay passionate and durable -
Remain a foul weather warrior, with Henri-Lloyd x