Part 8 - Paul Smith (With A Twist Of One True Saxon) x
"You can find inspiration in anything" - Paul Smith x
At one stage, the world of fashion didn't interest the Working Class gentleman.
Only a career involving bicycles, as a keen cyclist.
Until a chance conversation with Art and Design students, via drinks in his local Pub, altered his entire perceptions and changed the course of his life forever, after a six month stint in hospital, due to a bike accident.
There was to be an initial showcasing of other stylish brands, via help from his now-wife, fashion designer Pauline Denyer, in his first contemporary boutique, from 1970.
This was to be a new experience for anyone shopping outside of The Big Smoke.
Then in 1976, a dazzling array of colour (40 different types) was about to be splashed right across the City Of Nottingham.
The man inherently responsible for creating the eccentric, rainbow induced label, now majestically spearheaded by the notoriously kaleidoscopic, iconic zebra, is British fashion designer, (Sir) Paul Smith.
Having showcased his keen eye for unique detail on home soil, he entrepreneurially decided to venture out on the continent, to the famously velvet fashion world of Paris.
This was for Men's Fashion Week; successfully establishing himself as a potent heavyweight in the European/Global clothing firmament.
Paul Smith's resounding raiments/premium accessories are synonymous around the world, to be creatively and charmingly cut to an impeccable level, whatever the glamorous garment/accessory may be.
They are often doused in resonating striped colour (a process involving "windings") and are extremely swish as hell to boot, formal or informal. (Fully credited next to the likes of Armani et al).
People from all over flock to 300+ of his stores just for photographs alone, such is the magnitude of not only the clothes, for men and women but also the spectacular building designs!
Even his signature has a special touch of chic!
Savvy lads and lasses on the terraces know the score, what with the classic label being heavily spiced with influences delving from music, right through to art, such is the true nature and distinguished quality of its background.
Casual Connoisseurs note well -
Stan Smith of Tennis/Adidas fame, was born the same year (1946), with whom he later collaborated with.
Also, Ian Paley, who founded yet another inspiring Nottingham brand, in the form of proper old school/cult classic label One True Saxon (2000), used to work for Paul Smith.
(One True Saxon is sadly no longer produced and at one point, was my favourite label).
In 1994, Paul garnered a CBE for services to the British fashion industry.
Then in 2000, he went on to receive a Knighthood.
He touchingly married Pauline the same day.
His Father was a draper/photographer, so proud artisanal moments, for him and all connected.
The fascinating brand is now 53 years old.
He designed suits for Manchester United Football Club - (the late George Best used to be a Customer).
For the 60th anniversary of the late D. H. Lawrence's (fittingly, both are from Nottingham) novel, Lady Chatterley's Lover, Paul designed the cover for Penguin.
He also designed for his close friend, the late David Bowie.
Away from his timeless fashion world, he is still a passionate cyclist and is heavily involved with photography.
In an ever changing world, be positively and strangely curious, remaining innovative, sharp, smart and casual in the process.
Be like Paul Smith x