Simon and Mary: Honouring Heritage, Redefining Style

In the bustling city of Johannesburg, a hat brand has stood the test of time since its inception in 1935. Simon and Mary, with a rich heritage rooted in tradition and family values, has been reinvented by its founder, Dean Pozniak, to cater to a new generation of hat enthusiasts. Paying homage to its past while embracing contemporary influences, Simon and Mary have become synonymous with individuality, style, and quality.

Preserving Tradition

Simon and Mary are more than just a hat brand. A legacy passed down through generations. Housed in the same factory in Johannesburg that has witnessed its remarkable journey for over half a century, experienced machinists work diligently using trusted machinery from the 1960s. The skills and craftsmanship are not only retained by the dedicated workers. They are lovingly passed on to their children, ensuring that the brand’s tradition and commitment to quality remain intact.

The Catherine Hat

At the heart of Simon and Mary’s success is the iconic Catherine hat. Inspired by classic styles of a bygone era, this popular design is crafted using machinery from the 1960s, blending nostalgia with contemporary sensibilities. With its timeless appeal and attention to detail, the Catherine hat has captured the hearts of hat enthusiasts worldwide. It stands as a testament to the brand’s ability to reinvent and reinterpret classic shapes, offering a unique blend of heritage and modernity.

From Family Business to Cultural Phenomenon

Dean Pozniak, the visionary behind Simon and Mary, has a deep appreciation for the brand’s heritage. Having worked within the family business for several years, Dean recognized the inherent value of the factory and the hats it produced. Keeping the legacy alive, Simon and Mary Pozniak, the founders, laid the foundation for what would become a thriving family business that proudly endures to this day.

A Tale of Immigrant Dreams and Inspiration

Simon and Mary’s story is one intertwined with immigration dreams and literary inspiration. Simon Pozniak, a Polish immigrant, embarked on his journey in his father’s cap business in Fordsburg at the tender age of 16. It was during this time that he met Leah, who later became known as Mary. Inspired by Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace, Simon renamed his beloved wife after the character Marya Bolkonsky—a symbol of unwavering love and devotion. Mary also contributed to the factory that Simon established in Heriotdale, east of the city.

A Creative Collaboration and Cultural Identity

Simon and Mary’s identity is intricately connected to the vibrant city of Johannesburg. Collaborations with local creative luminaries like Jana+Koos and Trevor Stuurman have visually captured the essence of the brand’s narrative. The first Simon and Mary collection proudly graced Johannesburg’s creative class, emphasizing the brand’s indelible connection to the city’s cultural fabric.

Simon and Mary, a heritage brand for the new generation, seamlessly blends past and present, tradition and innovation. With its unwavering commitment to quality, the factory in Johannesburg stands tall as a symbol of enduring craftsmanship. Simon and Mary’s hats have become the go-to choice for the trendsetting youth, while the Catherine hat reigns supreme as an iconic style. Rooted in family values, immigration dreams, and the influence of War and Peace, Simon and Mary hats transcend their functional purpose to become reflections of Johannesburg’s rich cultural heritage. As Simon and Mary forged ahead, it continues to highlight the remarkable products and services that South Africa proudly offers to its people and the world.