Paul Smith’s new collection is inspired by his father’s photography.

Paul Smith’s new collection, inspired by his father’s photography, debuted in Paris.

This intimate event, held in a historic mansion in the Marais district, was a heartfelt tribute to the personal moments captured through his father’s lens, showcasing unique details that reflected their shared passion for photography and design.

The collection featured an array of garments that incorporated Harold’s photographic images, which were creatively printed onto corduroy fabrics and used as vintage-effect linings. As guests entered the presentation, they were greeted by an evocative display that included Harold’s actual enlarger and photographs, alongside memorabilia from his involvement with the Beeston Camera Club. This setting not only honored Harold’s legacy but also provided a nostalgic backdrop for the collection’s debut.

Paul Smith, who began his journey in fashion with a modest runway show in 1976, expressed his gratitude towards his father’s influence throughout his career. He fondly recalled how Harold ignited his passion for photography by gifting him his first camera at the age of 11. This early introduction to photography profoundly shaped Smith’s artistic vision and approach to fashion design. During the showcase, he highlighted various pieces inspired by specific photographs taken by his father, including shirts adorned with floral prints that were scaled up and abstracted from original images.

In addition to honoring his father’s work, Smith also paid homage to iconic photographers such as David Bailey and Terence Donovan. The collection featured tailored jackets paired with mismatched trousers and innovative pocket placements, merging classic tailoring with modern aesthetics. A standout piece was a gray herringbone jacket reminiscent of styles worn by press men in the 1960s, while another notable item was a green leather jacket with shearling detailing, paying tribute to Bailey’s signature look from the era.

Smith’s presentation was not just about showcasing clothing; it was an engaging narrative that intertwined personal anecdotes with fashion history. He humorously shared insights about menswear trends and the evolution of styles over the decades, emphasizing how photography has always been a significant influence on his work. The color palette of the collection drew inspiration from the muted tones favored by Saul Leiter, infused with unexpected pops of brightness that echoed the vibrancy of urban life.

Moreover, this season marked an exciting collaboration between Paul Smith and Barbour, known for its classic British outerwear. The partnership introduced whimsical elements into traditional designs, featuring playful linings adorned with images of springtime birds—a nod to both brands’ heritage while injecting a sense of humor into the collection.

As Paul Smith concluded the showcase, he expressed heartfelt thanks to his father for instilling in him a love for observation and creativity. The collection not only celebrated Harold B. Smith’s artistic legacy but also underscored Paul Smith’s enduring commitment to innovation within menswear. With this latest presentation, Paul Smith continues to blend personal narrative with high fashion, creating pieces that resonate on both emotional and aesthetic levels.

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