Fashion designer Sir Paul Smith has received the Freedom of the City of London, describing the honour as "truly wonderful". The 80-year-old, best known for his eponymous luxury brand, was recognised at a ceremony at the Guildhall on Thursday for his outstanding contribution to British fashion and design.
From Nottingham shop to global brand
Sir Paul founded his luxury brand in his Nottingham hometown in 1970, and it has since become a global name spanning five continents and more than 50 countries. To mark 50 years in business, he launched his Paul Smith Foundation in 2020, which aims to build sustainable careers for emerging talents in fashion, art and design.
Speaking about the honour, Sir Paul said: "It's truly wonderful to receive the Freedom of the City of London. I first opened my shop on Floral Street in Covent Garden back in 1979, and London has been such an important part of my life ever since. The city has changed enormously over the years, but what I've always loved is its extraordinary mix of people, creativity, and ideas. I feel very lucky that Paul Smith has been a small part of that story, and it's a real pleasure to have our contribution recognised."
A history of accolades
The Freedom of the City of London is believed to date back to 1237 and is granted by the City of London Corporation to celebrate outstanding contributions to London life. Sir Paul has received numerous honours throughout his career, including a CBE, a knighthood, and appointment as Member of the Order of the Companions of Honour. He has also received the French Legion of Honour and was presented with the Outstanding Achievement Award at the British Fashion Awards in 2011.
Sir Paul was previously honoured with Freeman of the City of Nottingham in 1997. He was nominated for his latest achievement by former lord mayor Alderman Sir William Russell and the City of London's lead member for SME growth, Shravan Joshi.
Tributes from city officials
Alderman Sir William said: "Tailor-made for Sir Paul, his Freedom of the City of London is a fitting tribute to his outstanding contribution to British fashion, design, and cultural life over the last 50 years. He has shown the world the very best of British creativity – original, colourful, confident, and with a dash of wit. It is a pleasure to celebrate a designer whose influence extends far beyond fashion."
Mr Joshi praised Sir Paul's "commitment to the next generation of designers" and his "growing presence in the city", adding: "I offer him my congratulations on receiving the Freedom, which is richly deserved."
Sir Paul joins a long list of famous faces who have received the honour, including Lord Andrew Lloyd-Webber, Dame Arlene Phillips, Gloria Hunniford, Sir Michael Caine, Dame Judi Dench and Sir Ian McKellen.
