Edmund Hillary clothing range revealed

Sir Edmund Hillary’s family has taken to the catwalk tonight to reveal a range of premium heritage men’s clothing that bears his name.

Grandsons George and Alexander Hillary, the faces of the new Edmund Hillary range, made their catwalk debut modelling the clothing at the brand’s global launch at New Zealand Fashion Week. Sir Edmund’s granddaughter Lily Hillary also made a special appearance.

Edmund Hillary Brands Ltd CEO Mike Hall-Taylor, who co-founded the brand alongside Peter Hillary (Sir Edmund’s son), says it was very exciting to see the range revealed after so many years in development.

“The debut collection aims to capture the essence of Sir Edmund Hillary, with our focus on limited edition, premium quality fashion garments inspired by the 1953 expedition of Mt Everest. These are investment pieces, created for the adventurous at heart, and will appeal to those who value quality, heritage and the socially responsible nature of the brand.”

Thirty looks were shown at this evening’s show – including replicas of jackets and knitwear worn by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953, with new fabric and design features that make them ideal urbanwear, while also functional outdoors.

Although not technical climbing gear, the jackets have been worn by Peter, George and Alexander Hillary on three recent climbing expeditions, as part of their quest to summit the seven highest peaks on each continent.

The garments – each produced in small quantities - are available online at edmundhillary.com from today.

Like the 1953 expedition, the collection is a collaboration between New Zealand, Great Britain and Nepal – with the highest quality fabrics ethically sourced from around the world, and manufactured mainly in Europe, the UK and New Zealand.

Peter Hillary says the new brand will help ensure the legacy of his father lives on.

“In line with his charitable work, a percentage of the sale of every Edmund Hillary garment goes to support causes that were close to Ed's heart – helping the people of Nepal, and outdoor activities for young people in the UK, New Zealand and Nepal.”

The range is taking a season-less approach, and will be available year-round through Edmundhillary.com, with the aim that no piece will be out of fashion at the end of any season.

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