Dressing the Greats

Since the earliest days of his career, Paul has found inspiration in unlikely places, this endless curiosity exemplified by his personal motto: ‘you can find inspiration in everything – and if you can’t, look again.’ Where more traditional designers might have limited their search for inspiration to the world of fashion only, Paul has always looked to music, art, architecture, furniture design and cinema to inform his collections, and in turn those worlds have been inspired by him. All manner of creative people – from actors and directors to singers and musicians – have gravitated towards him and his eponymous brand over the years, leading to an impressive roster of stars dressed by Paul Smith.

The exhibition is a celebration of this, bringing together a collection of tailoring made for and worn by some of the biggest names in entertainment. Highlights include a custom brown wool two-piece worn by Cillian Murphy to last year’s Oscar Nominees Luncheon; a burgundy two-tone double-breasted suit made for Jenna Ortega, for the premiere of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice; a bespoke check ensemble worn by David Bowie during a famous GQ photoshoot (featuring a cameo by Paul), and other items worn by Harrison Ford, Matt Smith, Gary Oldman, John Legend, Shawn Mendes, and more.