Cecil Douglas Ellis born 1932 London, started his career at the age of 17 as a trainee designer and pattern cutter working of leading fashion houses. Quick to learn and ambitious, Cecil started his own business whilst still in his mid-twenties. By 1985 Cecil had built one of the largest suede and leather manufacturing businesses in the UK, a leader in the industry.
Always willing to put something back in, Cecil also devoted much of his time working with United Nations helping to develop third world countries, teaching design, patern cutting, manufacturing techniques and the technology in the clothing industry. Never willing to stand still, the business expanded from suede and leather to outerwear, casual wear and formal garments in luxury fabrics. Cecil’s four sons, Lawrence, Michael, Jeffery and Steve joined the business and assumed roles in design, sales, admin and distribution. The company continued to manufacture for companies such as Burberry, Mulberry, Paul Smith and other leading brands.
In 1992 Cecil started designing and manufactuing for new clients Christopher Hammond and Peter Feraud who were producing a range of luxury garments on the brands Gianni Feraud and Feraud.
In the year 2000, Cecil purchased these brands and continued with his sons to build on what had already been achieved. New lines were quickly added including suits, shirts, ties, accessories, knitwear and underwear. Sadly in January 2008 Cecil died at the age of 75. He devoted his life to this industry and took great pride in every piece that was producted and he still played a major part in the business right to the end. The Gianni Feraud and Feraud brands are now well established in the UK and Cecil’s sons will continue with his legacy no doubt achieving even greater things.
