Earlier this month I attended the Dashwood Boat Club launch event in Henley. A small intimate gathering bringing bloggers like myself along with the local newspaper, the founder of Dashwood and members of staff in the brand new store.
Men and women dressed in Regatta style blazers and an interior designed like a traditional boat club with the front of the store looking like a dressing room and the back displaying an array of casual clothing for everyday wear and a Club House which shows off their formal wear centred predominantly around the iconic blazer.
The location of the store is perfect for the history and culture of rowing within Henley and 2012 Olympic gold medallists Alex Gregory and Vicky Thornley have joined the company as Brand Ambassadors, modelling the range and are displayed within the store itself.
Richard Cross, the creative founder elaborates on the development behind the brand;
"I’ve always been fascinated with the culture of rowing and felt it provided the perfect centre point to build a lifestyle brand around."
Dashwood Boat Club combines style with heritage, making it easy to wear and evoking an immediate identity for those looking to become ‘part of the club’. Designer Jenny Valarino; formerly senior designer of Heidi Klein and Sweaty Betty has created an iconic range with Richard where classic meets sophistication and originality.
Tatler have also been on hand and featured the event on their Bystander page of their magazine; The event was very welcoming and quaint with wine flowing, canapés available all evening and they were very grateful for your hospitality. After having spoken to Richard myself there are plans on the horizon which we wish him success in for the future!