Biography paul smith fashion designer

Born: Nottingham, England, 1946

Paul Smith originally had no interest in fashion. With no plans or qualifications, he was forced into taking a tedious job at a clothing warehouse in Nottingham.

Paul smith logo

Smith’s passion was cycling. With an ambition to become a professional racing cyclist, his dream was shattered when he had a terrible cycling accident aged 17.

Spending six months in hospital, Smith made new acquaintances during his rehabilitation.

Continuing these friendships outside of the hospital, Smith would meet them at a pub that was popular with students from a local art college. Conversations about Andy Warhol, Mondrian and David Bailey were accompanied by the sounds of the Rolling Stones.

Smith then decided he wanted to be part of this exciting new world.

Smith started managing a boutique in Nottingham and, with the encouragement of his girlfriend with a small amount of savings opened his first shop in 1970.

Only o