Hugo Boss was one of five siblings, born in Metzingen, Germany (1885). Metzingen is part of the Kingdom of Wurttemberg. Boss grew up surrounded by textiles and clothing—working in his parents’ lingerie and linen shop. His mother was named Luise and his father, Heinrich. Luise and Heinrich left their shop to Hugo, as he was the only one of their children who was still living.

Prior to inheriting the lingerie and linen shop, Boss worked completed an apprenticeship and also served in the military. During his apprenticeship he worked as a merchant, and then went on to serve from 1903 to 1905. Hugo also found work in a weaving mill in Konstanz. Hugo goes on to take over the family shop in 1908. This was the same year he also wed Anna Katharina Freysinger. The couple had a daughter together. Boss leaves behind the textile business while serving during World War I.

The war ended in 1918, and Boss returned to the world of textiles. Hugo was able to launch Hugo Boss the clothing factory in 1924. He was able to do so with the financial backing of two other established manufacturers. Hugo Boss began with thirty employees and handmade products. The company saw it’s share of successes and failures. In 1931 financial hardship in Germany forced Boss to file for bankruptcy. Thankfully he was able to keep some of his machines, and was able to restart the Hugo Boss clothing factory. It was thriving again by 1932.

Boss passed away in 1948. His son-in-law took over the Hugo Boss factory. The company has continued to grow steadily. The company has since added HUGO and BALDESSARINI as brands to their company. Hugo Boss is acclaimed for being “sophisticated and chic” apparel.