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That 70s show

Step out Who said men don’t wear flowers?

Having watched “The Italian Job” just before stepping into the lushly minimalist, Paul Smith Boutique, there was a sense of serendipity in the trademark stripy designs. One could imagine Michael Caine as Charlie Crocker stepping into the store and slipping into one of the elegantly-designed classic two or three button suits, stuffing the loot (if he managed to get it out of the precariously-balanced bus) into one of those smart holdalls and dashing off in a red, blue or white mini cooper for an assignation with one of the many lovelies that dot his life.

The Paul Smith story is as fascinating as the store itself. Paul Smith’s passion for racing saw him end up in hospital at the age of 17 after a terrible accident. During his recovery he hung out with designers and artists and in their bohemian conversations found his calling as a designer. From opening a store in 1970, the British designer has grown to be a mainstay in the major fashion weeks and has a global presence with stores in 35 countries.

The designs and the stores are reflection of Smith — classic with a twist. The store stocks the Paul Smith Collection, which is very British. From cricket-inspired flannels to the cropped bohemian stripe jackets, the classic English check short sleeve shirts to the vivid ties, slim lapels and two-button suits, the look is decidedly classic Prince of Wales.

Then there is Paul Smith London which is edgier with a comprehensive selection of blues. PS by Paul Smith is inspired by the finer things in life mixed with something worn and weathered. This line features fine washed jerseys, prints inspired by rock music, the Union Jack and antique roses! Paul Smith Jeans takes inspiration from an expedition through the Amazon. The palette ranges from dirty white to bright Amazonian colours like hot pink. Organic printed shirts in plain poplin, Amazonian blossoms and head dresses run riot on the clothes as do Madras checks and faded formal stripes. There are also jeans in organic denim and tough jackets.

And then there are the accessories. From mock croc holdalls, to a soft leather business collection, they are sure to make that business trip a whole lot of fun. There are also cufflinks with the trademark stripy motif as well as belts apart from shoes, socks and innerwear. All Paul Smith stores have interesting knick knacks, souvenirs from Paul Smith’s many travels. These curios are for sale and the Bangalore store had the quaintest clockwork robot, reminding one of the naughty Amelia Jane. It does not get more British than this. Quirky designs come at a price and the lovelies in the store cost between Rs. 1,600 (socks) to Rs. 1,20,000 (suits).

The Paul Smith Boutique is on 19 & 20, UB City, 3 24, Vittal Mallya Road, Phone: 4173882/4173883

MINI ANTHIKAD-CHHIBBER

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