From SOE Hero to Dressing the Queen: The Amazing Life of Sir Hardy Amies

During World War II, Sir Hardy Amies, a renowned British fashion designer, served as an intelligence officer for the Special Operations Executive. He also ran his fashion business, which the British Board of Trades promoted. Amies was a homosexual in a time when society was unaccepting, but he made valuable contributions to the war effort. He was awarded the Order of the Crown by the Belgian Government in 1948 and the CVO in 1977. His story reflects the cultural and societal turbulence of the 20th century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 03 October 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Sir Hardy Amies, a renowned British fashion designer, lived a fascinating double life as a couturier and an intelligence officer during World War II. His significant contributions to the Belgian resistance effort as part of the Special Operations Executive earned him the prestigious Order of the Crown from the Belgian Government in 1948. Not only did he conduct these operations, but he also simultaneously developed his thriving fashion business through the British Board of Trades' efforts to promote UK manufacturing during the conflict. Sir Hardy was a man who epitomized and challenged the realities of being homosexual in a deeply unaccepting society. Despite being thrust into an overtly macho and potentially hostile environment, he made valuable and courageous contributions to the war effort. Born into a lower-middle-class family, he possessed a remarkable charm, culture, and gregarious nature, effortlessly navigating the post-war world of high society. He launched his haute couture house to great acclaim, gaining clients ranging from film stars to royalty. His work for Queen Elizabeth II resulted in his appointment as the CVO in 1977, which was later elevated to the KCVO, Knight Commander of the Victorian Order, in 1989. Her Majesty's warm feelings towards Sir Hardy were evident in the many hand-written thank-you letters she sent him throughout their long working relationship. Sir Hardy, who lived until the age of 93, may have been dismissed as a lightweight character from the frivolous world of fashion. However, his story is extraordinary, showcasing his intelligence, extensive travel, and proficiency in three languages. His life exemplifies the remarkable contributions of individuals who defy societal expectations and make a lasting impact on the world.

Weight: 586g
Dimension: 165 x 243 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399049948