Paul Smith: How the designer known for colourful stripes conquered fashion
British fashion designer Sir Paul Smith reflects on his career and the success of his brand in Japan, which he attributes to a mix of humor and distinct design. The article coincides with the release of his new autobiography, 'Threads: My Life in Style'.
Why it matters
Paul Smith is a significant figure in global fashion, and his insights offer a look at the intersection of creative business strategy and personal branding.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Sir Paul Smith is famous for his signature stripes and colourful designs
Sir Paul Smith, the doyen of British fashion, is flailing around in his office with two large rubber chickens and making them squeak them with gusto.
"The chickens are the reason I was successful in Japan," he explains.
"I've been working in Japan since 1982. And when I first went there, there was one person who spoke schoolboy English. So, it was very much about communicating through gesture, drawings, but also humour."
"So, if I was a bit tired at four o'clock in the afternoon, I used to just go into my bag and go..."
"And then everybody collapsed with laughter."
It certainly did the trick. Almost 45 years, later there are more than 20 Paul Smith stores in Japan, part of a global empire spanning 50 countries.
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