Sir Paul has forged a global fashion empire from his exceptional, some might say quirky, eye for detail. His passion for collecting wacky bric-a-brac began as a teenager in his hometown of Nottingham. Here, "You could pick up brilliant art deco belt buckles, art nouveau jewellery and bits of Victoriana for about 50p". Previously bargains spied by the magpie-like designer at various flea markets worldwide would inevitably end up in one of his shops, adding to its signature English eccentric charm. Now his trove has a showcase of its own. Testimony, one might say, to Sir Paul's merits as an antiques-spotter.

Paul Smith, 9 Albemarle Street, London W1 (020 7493 4565)

- By Julia Robson