Harry Rosen, the Canadian luxury menswear icon and founder of the eponymous menswear retailer, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 92 on Monday, April 25, 2023, surrounded by his family..
Rosen was born in 1930 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, to Polish immigrant parents. He started his career in the fashion industry at the age of 15, working as a stock boy at a local menswear store. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a buyer and eventually manager of the store..
In 1954, Rosen opened his first store, Harry Rosen Menswear, in Toronto. The store was an immediate success, and Rosen quickly expanded his business, opening stores across Canada. By the 1970s, Harry Rosen was one of the leading menswear retailers in the country..
Rosen was known for his impeccable taste and his ability to spot emerging trends. He was also a pioneer in the use of advertising and marketing to promote his business. He was one of the first retailers to use television commercials to reach a wider audience..
In 1987, Rosen was awarded the Order of Canada, one of Canada’s highest civilian honors. He was also inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame in 2004..
Rosen retired from the business in 2003, but he remained active in the fashion industry, serving as a consultant and mentor to young designers. He was also a generous philanthropist, supporting many charities and organizations..
Rosen was a true pioneer in the Canadian fashion industry. He helped to change the way men dressed in Canada, and he left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of fashion designers and retailers..
He is survived by his wife, Sandra, his three children, Larry, David, and Lauren, and his seven grandchildren..
In a statement, the Rosen family said: .
