P A U L S M I T H
Sir Paul Smith is a British designer, born on the 5th of July 1946. His business and reputation have both been founded upon his mens fashion, specifically focusing on tailoring - however has now branched out to womenswear, accessories and even rugs! He is also known for his idiosyncratic take on traditional British styling described as 'classic with a twist'.
Paul Smith was born in Nottingham and was educated at Beeston Fields Grammar School. He left school at the age of 15 to work at a clothing warehouse, although his real ambition was to become a professional racing cyclist. He enjoyed his cycle ride to work every day until the age of 17, where he encountered a serious accident (gaining injuries which put an end to his real ambitions). However this was not necessarily for the worst. In his 6 months hospital recovery, Paul Smith made friends with some people from the local art college who soon introduced him to the world of art and fashion.
Paul Smith influenced the attitude towards mens fashion throughout his wide use of colour and print. He opened a small shop in Nottingham in 1967 with the help of his now wife, Pauline Denyer, selling clothes originally by brands such as Kenzo. Supported by Pauline (who taught fashion at the time), Paul started designing his own clothes and began selling them too within his store. By 1976, Paul Smith clothes were being shown in Paris. Today, Paul Smith's collections continue to demonstrate his love for classic English tradition and his eye for detail.