Half a century, by any measure, is a milestone that warrants reflection. British designer, Sir Paul Smith, is doing just that in his Covent Garden office, a place instantly recognisable from the piles of books, walls covered with artwork and a vast collection of curios from around the world.
“After 50 years, one of the most joyful things [of the business] is being an independent company,” he says. “But equally that’s also the biggest burden right now, as there isn’t the support system of a big group… But we’ve been good, and the great joy of independence is spontaneity.”
This uneasy year for fashion, for Smith like others, has signalled a recalibration of a well-worn system. There have been the obvious stressors – but even with a cancelled show and international book tour, he hasn’t become too emotional over the recent state of affairs, as he’s “been too busy with everything else”.
A NEW BEGINNING
“I honestly think that, out of this year, the affection for a brand that’s so down to earth and real will hopefully shine through in a greedy corporate world,” he says. “Younger people, who are more socially and environmentally conscious, will hopefully take note.”
This story is from the December 2020 edition of Prestige Singapore.
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This story is from the December 2020 edition of Prestige Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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