Matinique Executive Designer
The World as Inspiration
Growing up in the beach vacation town of Skagen in Denmarke, Matinique Executive Designer Henrik Kongerslev was exposed to colourful characters from around the world throughout his childhood.
Three years in the army and a career as a DJ opened up his horizons even further. And it was the club life and the world of music that sparked his interest in fashion.
A Passion for Design
His design skills really began to take shape in 1984. Having returned to the rugged, adventurous military life, Henrik was stationed with the UN on Cyprus where he started to sketch his ideas for the first time. After studying art, he was accepted to the prestigious Danmarks Designskole in Copenhagen.
The Matinique Man
Determined, driven and dedicated – that’s been the formula for Henrik’s career path. And his relationship with Matinique is by no coincidence a homecoming story. He joined the creative team straight from design school and quickly moved on to Matinique’s sibling brand, Part Two. After four years, Henrik returned to Matinique in 1995 as senior designer.
In December 2004, following five years of challenging work away from the company, Henrik once again returned to Matinique with fresh eyes and renewed vision.
As Executive Designer, Henrik is now responsible for both concept and the new design line. His solid sense of taste, keen eye for detail and ability to balance price and quality make him the perfect person for the job.
Henrik finds his inspiration in many sources and has a particular penchant for clothing from the period between 1955 and 1965. A man of strong principles, he is a firm believer in using inspiration from the past, but understands that this only works if it is given a new twist.
Just a Regular Guy
Henrik’s level-headed and sincere approach to his work is very refreshing in an industry that can be a little over-the-top.
When he isn’t at work, Henrik enjoys going out or just relaxing with friends. Being an outdoors type, Henrik also enjoys mountain biking and going for a hike along the coast, and his travel plans always include exotic adventures such as treks in Vietnam.
And the ex-DJ still retains his interest in music, with a broad range of tastes that continue to inspire his clothing designs.