Paul Smith's Autobiography 'Threads' Chronicles Five Decades of Fashion

Sir Paul Smith, the renowned British fashion designer, has released his autobiography 'Threads: My Life in Style', published on 10 September. The book recounts his journey from a cycling accident at age 17 to building a global fashion empire with over 20 stores in Japan and presence in 50 countries. Smith, who turned 80, wrote the book to share advice with aspiring designers, emphasizing patience and gradual growth. The autobiography includes anecdotes about his friendships with celebrities like George Best, David Bowie, and Paul McCartney. Smith, who is dyslexic, also discusses his struggles with reading. His signature stripes, first introduced in spring 1992, remain a hallmark of his brand. The designer, known for his colorful and playful personality, often uses rubber chickens to break the ice in business meetings, a tactic that helped him succeed in Japan. His London office is filled with gifts from fans, including a plastic goose and a bike from Chris Froome's Tour de France win. Smith, who opened his first shop in Nottingham in 1970, continues to work on the sales floor at his flagship store in Floral Street, London, a few hours each week.