It was raining as we filed into the huge St Martins atrium for the Paul Smith show and there was a fair share of sniffing and shivering as seats were found and umbrellas were discarded. Luckily, bedraggled was sort of the order of the day as, when the show started, damp, rainy hair sat above big warm coats in yolk-yellow shearling, extra large, extra cosy fine knitted jumpers snuggled up high on necks and slim, modern double-breasted jackets in muted blues and purples glimmered like reflections on the top of a puddle. It was almost torturous to see the models wrapped up so sensibly as rain dribbled down our backs though it felt distinctly refreshing in light of how often designers tend to completely ignore ideas of season.
A hint of light pink silk added shivers of glamour to an otherwise super soft, pragmatic collection and wide-legged suits, smooth leather panels and some (very chic) overalls provided definition and sophistication. It’s hardly a surprise that Paul Smith doing classic Paul Smith would be such a joy – although who knew getting caught in the rain could be quite so appealing?
