British Sailing and Henri Lloyd
BY Natasha Bailey ON 07 April, 2025
British sailing has long been synonymous with adventure and resilience. This rich maritime heritage has not only shaped the nation's identity but has also influenced various facets of British culture, including fashion.
One brand that stands at the intersection of sailing excellence and fashion innovation is Henri-Lloyd.
Henri Strzelecki was a Polish soldier who settled in the UK after World War II. With a background in textiles, he partnered with Angus Lloyd to revolutionize sailing apparel.
Their mission was clear: to create high-quality, durable clothing that could withstand the harshest maritime conditions while offering comfort and style.
Henri and Angus pioneered the use of many new materials in their clothing designs, like Bri-Nylon. A lightweight and flexible fabric that set new standards in foul weather gear.
Their commitment to innovation didn't stop at fabrics. They were trailblazers in introducing non-corrosive zips made of nylon and were among the first to incorporate Velcro closures in waterproof garments.
Perhaps one of their most significant contributions was the integration of Gore-Tex waterproofing, a technology that underwent over 22,000 hours of testing at sea before being offered to customers in 1994.
The brand's reputation for quality and reliability quickly caught the attention of sailing pioneers.
Sir Francis Chichester wore the Henri-Lloyd Consort Jacket during his solo circumnavigation in 1966-67, becoming the first person to sail single-handedly around the world along the clipper route.
Sir Robin Knox-Johnston wore Henri-Lloyd gear in 1969 when he became the first person to complete a non-stop solo circumnavigation of the globe.
Henri-Lloyd's legacy continues through partnerships with contemporary sailing icons. Sir Ben Ainslie, the most successful Olympic sailor, has been associated with the brand since 1996.
Henri Lloyd is the current official Performance Clothing Partner of the Americas Cup team, Ineos Britannia.
While Henri-Lloyd's roots are firmly planted in sailing, its influence has seamlessly transitioned into mainstream fashion.
The brand first gained prominence in the fashion world in 1984 when the Milan Scooter Society, known as the 'Paninaro' scene, adopted the Henri-Lloyd Consort Jacket as part of their uniform, pairing it with Levi 501 jeans and Timberland boots. This crossover appeal highlighted the brand's versatility and its ability to resonate with fashion enthusiasts who appreciate functional yet stylish clothing.
In the mid-1990s, Henri-Lloyd launched the Black Label collection, blending Italian-inspired sportswear with technical fabrics. This move not only showcased the brand's adaptability but also earned it the UK Fashion Brand of the Year award in 1997.
Henri-Lloyd offers more than just clothing; it provides a connection to a legacy of exploration, innovation, and style. Whether you're navigating city streets or coastal trails, the brand's apparel serves as a reminder of Britain's rich sailing history and the seamless blend of functionality and fashion.
