Paris Fashion Week S/S 2012: Menswear

Paul Smith

According to Paul Smith, his collection had no theme and no references - instead, it was all about adding to your existing wardrobe. Colour was key, and what ensued was a sophisticated palate that was not only a reaction against the primary colour around, but also because the ensuing shades were 'more timeless'. Smith's technique was to mix them up with colour-blocking - using up to five different shades on the one look (sometimes just a one-piece), all cut from different cloth. Layering was another strong theme, with one jacket as light as a shirt over another, or a collarless and sleeveless gilet with a blouson back over a blazer. Paris has been a season of bare ankles with lace-up shoes and boots - if this catches on the hosiery industry will have a bad season

Photography: Jason Lloyd-Evans

fashion 24 Jun 2011