Paul Smith at 80: A Life of Fashion, Fun, and Unwavering Dedication
By Editor • September 7, 2026 • 1 min read
Renowned British designer Paul Smith, who recently celebrated his 80th birthday, reflects on his remarkable journey in the fashion industry as he prepares to release his new autobiography, Threads: My Life in Style. With a career that began when he left school at 15, Smith has built a global brand renowned for its unique take on classic tailoring.
Despite his illustrious success, Smith believes in the importance of hard work and remains actively involved in his business. He takes great joy in running one of his 130 global stores in Mayfair, London, where he still engages with customers personally. "It’s fantastic, you meet so many interesting people," he shares with a warm smile, emphasizing his commitment to staying connected with the heart of his brand.
As he looks back on his life, Smith acknowledges the serendipity that has shaped his experiences, crediting his wife, Pauline, as a pivotal influence on his success. While he enjoys reflecting on his achievements, he remains focused on the future, challenging the notion of retirement and expressing a desire to keep innovating in an ever-evolving industry.
Source: www.theguardian.com