Kestin Hare named as Creative Director of Henri-Lloyd as it signals return to wholesale

Henri-Lloyd has today announced that Kestin Hare, Founder of Scottish-based menswear brand Kestin, will join as Creative Director.

On LinkedIn, Henri-Lloyd said that the appointment of Hare represents “a significant step change” for the brand as it celebrates its 60th anniversary under new ownership and signals a return to the wholesale market.

Hare has firmly established himself as a leading figure in today’s contemporary fashion and lifestyle landscape. As the Founder and Creative Director of Kestin, he is an experienced designer “known for his talent to take heritage brands and redefine them in a way that is both respectful, innovative and elevated”.

Hare previously held the role of Head of Design at Nigel Cabourn, between September 2002 and November 2006, and prior to launching his Kestin brand he was Owner and Creative Director of Common People between October 2010 and November 2014.

Graham Allen, CEO at Henri-Lloyd, which was founded in Manchester in 1963 by Henri Strzelecki and Angus Lloyd, said: “We are delighted to announce Kestin Hare as Creative Director of Henri-Lloyd and together, define the future chapters of Henri-Lloyd’s rich heritage in product engineering and craftsmanship.

“For 60 years our reputation has built on extremes and heroic exploration. Combine this heritage with Hare’s contemporary vision on fit and materials, and with his leadership our purpose is to transcend the norms of the industry and elevate the next generation of premium global product.”

Hare commented: “I was drawn to Henri-Lloyd for the way it has built a business founded on values such as integrity and innovation. The relevance of Henri-Lloyd lies in this fusion of sport and fashion and British/Italian heritage. I see a tremendous opportunity to design world class product and I am beyond proud to contribute to a new chapter in its history.”

The Scottish designer will present his first Henri-Lloyd collection for AW24. The collection will showcase premium product and quality design, “leaning into brand heritage while elevating the platform on a global scale”.

The ‘Sportswear’ range will become the pinnacle foundation of Henri-Lloyd lifestyle through iconic styles, and Kestin Hare will influence the platform through product design and marketing.