Simon and Mary

Simon and Mary is a Johannesburg based millinery that i have been following with eager anticipation on Instagram, where they have slowly been releasing imagery from their AW14 campaign, launching this year. Simon and Mary has a 70 year history, beginning in 1935 when Simon Pozniak’s father Mordechai brought his cap factory from Poland to Johannesburg. Simon grew the business into Africa’s most renowned wool felt hat factory, and today the fourth generation Pozniak, Dean, is continuing his legacy. the name Simon and Mary comes from Simon’s pet name for his beloved wife Leah, he read the book War & Peace while recovering from heart surgery, and Mary is the lead female character.

Simon and Mary was started as a tribute to my grandparents, built on their history of the finest millinery traditions, family values, craftmanship and creating opportunities that contribute to society. Inspired by the styles created by Simon in the past, we aim to constantly reinvent the hat for the modern hat lover. The milliner title has been passed down from generation to generation. Hats are in our blood, it is more than a clothing item, but rather a way of life.

the first feather in the proverbial felt cap of Simon and Mary is being invited to exhibit at Berlin’s Bread and Butter expo, the only South African brand to do so. it’s being held from 14-16 January, so if you’re in the area and you’re keen to see their wares visit their website for more info.

their AW14 campaign features young professionals, artists, curators, sartorialists, creative spirits, entrepreneurs and hat lovers who love, work and play in Joburg. photographed by Aimee Pozniak and Gareth Place.