Renowned designer, Syracuse native and SU alumnus Henry Grethel was honored with the 2009 Icon of Style Award at “Vision with Action,” VPA's juried fashion show, which took place on June 3 at JPMorgan Chase, 270 Park Ave., NYC. The show featured top collections from fashion design seniors in VPA’s School of Art and Design.

 

VPA created the Icon of Style Award to honor individuals in the fashion industry who are bold, innovative and visionary. The inaugural 2008 award was presented to VPA alumna Emme ’85, a prominent model, author, lecturer, clothing designer and women’s advocate.

 

Grethel, a designer, merchandiser and marketer, is president of HG Designs International. Known for deftly combining the casual, modern essence of American sportswear with sophisticated colors and fine fabrics, he was an early factor in business casual clothing and remains a vital, creative force designing for the rapidly evolving lifestyles and priorities of today’s consumer. His marketing education and vast business experience have made him an entrepreneurial concept creator and product producer. In addition to holding executive positions at such major apparel companies as C.F. Hathaway, Eagle Shirtmakers and Manhattan Industries, he originated and developed the John Henry brand in men’s and women’s wear prior to debuting his own collections for men and women. His interconnected trademarks—Henry Grethel™, Equipment by Henry Grethel™, Henry Grethel Platinum™ and Henry Grethel Studio™—represent originality, creativity and salability.

 

Grethel has received numerous honors for marketing and design, including membership in the prestigious Council of Fashion Designers of America. He was also selected to design the opening ceremony uniforms for Team USA at the Albertville and Barcelona Olympic Games. For more, visit http://www.joanhansen.com/henry_grethel1.html.