subject: Paul Smith for athlets [print this page] There are only a handful of household names in the fashion world and Paul Smith is one of them, having built up his company on an international stage. He was born in 1946 in Nottingham, England and opened his first shop there in 1970, later opening others in London. The shops gave him the opportunity to showcase his designs and his label became much sought after.
Currently, the company retails twelve different collections, including Paul Smith Womens and Paul Smith Jeans. The R.Newbold line is exclusive to Japan, where the designer is very popular. Other collections are for shoes, watches, pens, furniture and perfume.
The range of men and women's fashion is noted for its blend of traditional and modern design. One of his most popular designs is a pinstripe accompanied by colored stripes. In fact, stripes are a common sight on Smith's clothes and his line of multi-colored socks are a favorite item with his customers. His other, more controversial, feature is the use of an image of a nude woman concealed on cuff links etc. The menswear is marketed at the men who are fortunate enough to be tall and of slender build.
Now Paul Smith dress professional athletes. Manchester United Football Club has tapped Paul Smith to design the teams formal wear and accessories for the next three years.On the sporty collaboration, the designer says: "We were very privileged to be asked to make the suits; the suit is a two button slim navy 100% mohair with specially designed lining with red panels and striped piping.The team crest has been made from gold and silver thread and is sewn to the top pocket to give a club blazer feel. As we are famous for stripes we decided on a tie with diagonal stripes in optimistic colors, designed exclusively for the team. It is worn with a white shirt and we have made a special belt which has the crest printed inside on the tip. Finally, we have supplied luggage for the team in a striped fabric inspired by traditional English suiting."
