In the latest installment of MR PORTER’s Essentials series, the camera steps inside Paul Smith’s London headquarters to uncover the story behind one of the label’s most celebrated creations: A Suit to Travel In. The piece sits at the intersection of classic tailoring and contemporary practicality, reflecting the designer’s belief that a modern wardrobe should move with the wearer, not constrain it.
The Essentials series: Paul Smith
MR PORTER’s Essentials films invite viewers behind the scenes of iconic fashion moments, offering a candid look at the people, processes, and philosophies that shape today’s menswear. In this episode, the focus lands on Paul Smith’s approach to tailoring — where heritage craftsmanship meets forward‑thinking functionality.
A Suit to Travel In: Design philosophy
Conceived with movement, versatility, and the rhythms of everyday life in mind, the suit was engineered to withstand the demands of travel while retaining a sharp, timeless silhouette. Technical fabrics, hidden stretch panels, and meticulous construction allow the jacket and trousers to flex with the body, reducing creasing and enhancing comfort during long journeys.
Beyond performance, the suit carries Paul Smith’s signature touch — subtle colour accents, thoughtful lining details, and a relaxed yet refined cut that feels equally at home in a boardroom or a weekend getaway.
“A suit should never feel like a costume; it should be a second skin that adapts to wherever life takes you.”
Why it endures
Several factors keep A Suit to Travel In relevant season after season:
- Innovative fabric blends that resist wrinkles and retain shape.
- Strategic venting and ergonomic seam placement for unrestricted motion.
- Classic proportions updated with modern, lightweight construction.
- Attention to detail — from signature stitching to discreet pocket flaps.
Watch the full film to see how these elements come together, and discover why this suit remains a cornerstone of the contemporary man’s wardrobe — perfect for travel, work, and everything in between.
Read more in The Journal on MR PORTER.
