Paul Smith

Biography

Sir Paul Brierley Smith CH CBE RDI (born 5 July 1946) is an English fashion designer. His reputation is founded on his designs for men's clothing, but his business has expanded into other areas as well. Smith was made a Royal Designer for Industry in 1991.

His eponymous fashion company was founded in 1970 and has expanded into over 70 countries, selling its products via standalone stores, departments in high-end stores or malls, airport terminals, as well as the e-commerce section of its international website. His brand's fluorescent pink flagship store in Los Angeles is a tourist destination for people who want to take selfies.

In 1993, Smith took over 'workwear' clothing company R. Newbold (established in 1885) and incorporated many of their designs into his new collection.

In 1995, the Design Museum exhibited 'True Brit', a show marking 25 years of his business. The show then went on to Glasgow for the 'Festival of Design' and then moved to his hometown of Nottingham and was put on display in Nottingham Castle.

Smith published his first book, You Can Find Inspiration in Everything, in 2001.

The brand launched its e-commerce site in 2004.

In 2013, Smith designed and made a school tie for Beeston Fields Primary School in Nottingham.

In 2016, Smith's second book, Paul Smith's Cycling Scrapbook, was released: it documents a personal history of the sport about which he is passionate.

In 2019, Smith made a cameo appearance in the film Men in Black: International; he also designed the suits in the film.

His company remains independent, the majority owned by Smith.