Getting familiar with Paul Smith’s latest line

The legacy of Paul Smith is unquestionable – but it is perhaps the English designer’s ability to maintain a sense of modernity that has seen his eponymous brand remain relevant long beyond many of its peers. PS by Paul Smith is the latest reminder of this: the nascent contemporary line was launched earlier this year and reinterprets Smith’s unique vision from a youthful, sportswear-led perspective.

Inspired by the concept of “wanderlust and exploration”, the SS17 collection is styled like past British subcultures – navigating from mod to skinhead – with tropical prints and technical fabrics. Sportswear styles and motifs appear in the form of ergonomic outerwear and the oversized stripe detailing; meanwhile, the womenswear offering includes seasonal, summer graphics and relaxed denim silhouettes with embroidered patch detailing.

The collection, however, stays true to Smith’s signature style, with many of the traits that we’ve come to associate with his work appearing throughout – the colours are flamboyant and tailoring, where it appears, is decidedly precise. These pieces are underpinned by a slew of everyday, jersey-based items, classic shirting and jeans, which gives a sense versatility to proceedings.

Also of note is the number of pieces which are emblazoned with the brand’s new logo, a slick PS emblem which takes inspiration from the iconography of English post-punk bands.

PS by Paul Smith may only be in its second season, but already the brand has announced a slew of dedicated flagship stores in London, Paris, Hong Kong and Osaka, with the promise of more to follow. Thus far, each location ostensibly chimes perfectly with the brand’s vibrant, youthful vision.