Titled The Suit (But Different), Paul Smith’s SS24 collection did what it said on the tin: redefining formal dress codes with that vibrant, pop art flow he’s so tuned into. Reaching back into his storied archive – located in his hometown of Nottingham – classic references from the 70s to today were plugged into the system to create a bold vision of smart dressing for the modern man. What emerged was blazers, shirts and ties paired with boxer shorts – aka the standardised Zoom call uniform – relaxed suiting with layers stripped away, and light, pyjama cuts for everyday leisure. Pinstripes, herringbone suede and polka dots became recurring motifs while a moddish Harrington shape became a tailored look and one particular waistcoat and trouser look was printed with an image Smith had taken of the morning light through Venetian blinds.

Classic sneakers were inspired by Jacques Anquetil cycling shoes Smith wore as a lad, and iridescent tones glistened in the light. The whole collection was cast in a palette inspired by a single frame from Lawrence of Arabia – find it and you win a tenner.

“Tailoring is so often thought of as such a serious business, but I’ve always been keen to show people how much fun you can have with it – especially now,” said Smith. “So, while this show is an homage to suits and tailoring as an art and form of craft – one that requires a huge amount of skill and expertise – it’s also about putting humour and joy back into smart dressing.