1895
Joshua Slocum master mariner, set sail from Boston on April 24, to attempt to become the first person to sail around the world alone.
1898
Joshua Slocum arrived home as the first person to sail alone around the world and became known as “The New World Columbus.”
1900
Sailing Alone Around the World, a sailing memoir by Joshua Slocum, shared his story of global circumnavigation aboard the sloop Spray. The book was highly influential in inspiring later travelers. The book was a best seller and is still in print today. He is one of the most famous sailors to this day, inspiring millions.
2014
More than a century later, Pretty Rugged founder, Tracy Slocum, dreamt of having a practical yet beautiful blanket to warm up the whole family while boating on chilly nights.
2015
Realizing the blanket of her dreams did not exist, and after a re-read of her famous ancestor’s acclaimed book, she channeled his celebrated perseverance and made one herself. She used modern materials inspired by those available in her great-great-grandfather’s day: luxurious fur on one side with a waterproof and windproof backing on the other.
2016
Tracy’s can-do spirit and adventurous roots came to bear and she took the plunge to formalize the business - the Pretty Rugged brand was born. The business’ core attribute would be quality-crafted with an innovative twist, just like the boats Joshua Slocum curated in his day. Plush faux fur and weatherproof RuggedTex fabric are the perfect marriage of modern, easy-care materials, designed to provide years of luxury, performance, and style.
2017
The rave reviews started pouring in from family and friends and it became clear that The Pretty Rugged Blanket wasn’t just for boaters so Tracy took her new product on-the-road – to fashion shows, trade expos, and networking events - and immediately won a best new product award.
2018
Following in her great-great-great grandfather’s wake, Tracy’s award-winning, Pretty Rugged brand can be found all over the world on boats circling the globe and in countless other locations sharing warmth as memories are made.
Pretty Rugged wins Best in Market and
Best New Product at NYNOW 2018.
The only company to ever win both at their first NYNOW trade show.
Pretty Rugged wins Best in Market and
Best New Product at NYNOW 2018.
The only company to ever win both at their first NYNOW trade show.
August 2018
August 2018 The Baby and Pet Blankets were born! Adding useful and luxurious items to the award-winning full-size blanket family!.
November 2018
“Being in cars with pets can be chaotic—but unroll one of these faux-fur throws (with a monogrammable zip pocket for treats and toys) and your dog will become an easy rider.” — Oprah
As Oprah says in the December issue of O, The Oprah Magazine
As Oprah says in the December issue of O, The Oprah Magazine
February 2019
First outerwear introduced with the
Collins Capelet.
Collins Capelet.
July 2019
Launched the first non-fur garment,
The Pretty Puffer.
The Pretty Puffer.
August 2019
Ground-breaking and industry first
‘Blakely Faux Fur Reversible Bomber’
released and wins Best New Product at NYNOW 2019.
‘Blakely Faux Fur Reversible Bomber’
released and wins Best New Product at NYNOW 2019.
February 2020
Pretty Rugged expands products to include 3-in-1 Shawl and the Oversized Tote.
August 2021
Pretty Rugged introduces the first machine washable blanket featuring luxurious faux fur and SatinTex™, the first in the TS Luxe line.
August 2021
Pretty Rugged creates the cardigan everyone has wanted - the TS Luxe Cardigan. Our first wearable blanket.
August 2022
Pretty Rugged introduces the Game Day Collection. Ready to keep you cozy and comfortable as you cheer on your favorite team!
October 2022
Tracy Slocum brings Pretty Rugged to national TV with her appearance on Shark Tank! She secured two sharks when she went into the tank!