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Paul Smith was born in 1946 in Nottingham. One of Britain’s foremost designers, he is known for his clothing and accessories collections. From its origins in a single small shop in Nottingham, in 1970, Paul Smith has grown into a global business – selling in over seventy countries. Paul Smith specialises in an inventive use of traditional craftsmanship, and cutting-edge design, to create beautifully made, desirable, modern pieces. Starting with one men’s collection, the business now comprises collections for men, women and children, and includes, shoes, accessories, fragrance and home furnishings. Over his near fifty-year career, Paul has designed furniture for Cappellini; Burton snowboards; Leica cameras; Rapha cycling gear; London Olympics stamps; and a bespoke Mini. His values of curiosity, quality and authenticity remain a constant. He was knighted in 2001 for services to fashion.
In this interview with Mike Dempsey RDI, Sir Paul Smith RDI discusses his fascinating career and grants the listener a unique insight into the fashion industry.
46 mins
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First show, Paul Smith Menswear collection, Paris Fashion Week
1976
1976
Paul Smith Mini Cooper
1998
1998
Paul Smith Autumn Winter 2019 main show
2019
2019
Credits from left to right
Paul Smith Limited
Sailko, Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA
Paul Smith Limited
Paul Smith Limited
Sailko, Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA
Paul Smith Limited