Over the last 32 years, one name—Heinz In Style —has come to represent elegance and flair in the energetic city of Port Elizabeth. The history of this upscale formal and evening clothing rental business is as distinctive as its creator, Heinz, whose drive and vision turned an old scrap yard discovery into a beloved local institution of fashion.
It all began in July 1992 when Heinz, a qualified mechanic with a love for fabric and fashion, unveiled a red 1934 Fluid Drive Dodge at his newly opened store. “I started with the planning in 1991 already,” Heinz recalls. “Being a qualified mechanic that prefers to spend time and effort on fabric and make people happy, I had to bring something mechanical into the shop to remind me.” The Dodge, rescued from a scrap yard and meticulously restored, became the star attraction of Heinz In Style and a conversation piece that sparked curiosity and admiration among customers. “Some car collectors got very upset that I have chopped the wreck up, but all ends well,” he adds with a smile.
Over the past three decades, Heinz In Style has become Port Elizabeth’s go-to destination for formal and evening wear. The journey has been filled with significant milestones and challenges. Heinz reflects on these moments with pride and a sense of accomplishment. “Every happy and satisfied client is a milestone,” he says. “To see happy brides-to-be because their groom and entourage are looking dapper and compliment the ladies of the bridal party – that’s the highlight of my work.”
However, the path has not always been smooth. “To keep everybody happy is just about impossible,” Heinz admits. “We try to suggest substitute garments and give advice as we go along. When we can’t assist a client to the likes they want, that is a sad moment always, because we love happy clients in the store.” Despite these challenges, the joy of seeing clients at their events, looking their best and feeling confident, makes it all worthwhile. “It is always a heart-melt moment when I see my clients at their events and on TV,” he shares.
Heinz In Style is renowned for its stylish designs and ultra-trendy suits and dresses that make clients feel exceptionally well-dressed. Staying ahead of fashion trends is crucial in this industry, and Heinz has mastered this art. “Our basic lines are always classic as they never really date, but the accessories are always more high fashion,” he explains. “As the seasons change, so does the colour for that season and we try our very best to stock a huge variety of suit colours.”
Heinz keeps his finger on the global fashion pulse, drawing inspiration from top designers and local talents. “My personal favourite designers are Tom Ford and Versace,” he says. “Do not forget our local established and up-and-coming designers too – I love local.”
Heinz In Style has dressed a diverse array of clients, from grooms and brides to celebrities on the red carpet. The impact of his work is evident in the glowing feedback from satisfied clients. “It is always awesome to get feedback such as ‘I felt totally like Hollywood and a million dollars,’” Heinz recalls. Other memorable compliments include, “Thank you for boosting us for our event,” and “You made my groom look so hunky and romantic.” These testimonials highlight the profound impact Heinz In Style has on its clients’ special occasions.
As a stylist to the stars and a fashion guru with over three decades of experience, Heinz sees his role as a mentor and community supporter. “I have been involved in many a fashion design student’s life at the start of their careers,” he says. “Some still get mentored by me. Young entrepreneurs ask for assistance and guidance, and it is an honour for me to share my knowledge that I gained through the many years.”
Looking ahead, Heinz plans to continue doing what he loves. “I enjoy what I do, and it still gives me great satisfaction,” he says. “I will carry on doing what I love to do for as long as possible.” He also hints at spending more time on productions, having owned and produced Mr. PE and uberMANN for 20 years and Mademoiselle for two years before calling it a day in 2023.
As Heinz In Style celebrates its 32nd year, Heinz is planning a more low-key celebration compared to the big bash for the 30th anniversary. “We are busy replacing stock with new designs and that will be my gift to my clients,” he reveals. “Who knows what the future brings, and when it does, we will take it with open arms.”
Heinz In Style’s journey from a scrap yard find to a fashion icon is a story of passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to making people look and feel their best. As Heinz continues to shape the fashion landscape of Port Elizabeth, his legacy of style and elegance is sure to endure.