Paul Smith Branches Out

Paul Smith will be opening his first Womenswear shop in the heart of Mayfair, London. Located next to Claridge’s Ballroom in Brook Street, the boutique will be stocking a selection of women’s ready-to-wear pieces, shoes, bags, jewellery and accessories - some of which will be exclusive to the shop. Staying true to Claridge’s iconic art deco design the shop’s sophisticated decoration is influenced by the elegant heritage of its prestigious neighbour. The shop will have two entrances, from the glass fronted doorway on Brook Street, or the steps leading directly in from the hotel lobby. The elegant decor features vertically striped walls in pink and cream, whilst a line of black lacquered cabinets run along the boutique, where the texture recurs in the polished parquet wooden flooring. Two large tiered tables stand in the centre like decadent iced cakes, whilst overhead, the room is illuminated by two 1930s Italian Murano glass chandeliers which hang gracefully from a high ceiling.
 
This season, Paul Smith will also be joining forces with Rapha to launch a collection of cycling clothes and accessories. Building over two seasons, the collection will feature products that are inspired by road racing and designed specifically for city riding. As the latest addition to the series of collaborations between Rapha and Paul Smith, such as the limited edition Paul Smith version of Rapha’s Grand Tour gloves launched this summer and the Rapha Condor Sharp team on Paul Smith bags this season, the new collection comprises of six items including; a City Rain jacket, jersey and luxury cycling accessories. This capsule range will be extended further next spring with additional jerseys, trousers and accessories. The Autumn collection combines leading technical fabrics and details with striking colours and polka dot patterns.

Paul Smith, 49 Brook Street, opens mid-September 2010.