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London, Sep 14, 2001/ FWD/ --- The first British designer to pull out of London Fashion Week since the
terrorist attack on the United States is Sir Paul Smith. His "Paul Smith Women" collection was scheduled to
show on Tuesday September 18 at 10:00am.
In a press release today Smith stated that he "does not feel it is appropriate to show his collection within
the format of a fashion show so soon after these tragic events and whilst there is so much uncertainty in the
aftermath."
International buyers and journalists will be able to make appointments to see the collection in Paul Smith's
London showroom during London Fashion Week.
Smith is one of the few well-known British designers left on the London Fashion Week calendar. The question
arises now: Will this announcement start a flood of other designers canceling or postponing their shows?
John Willson, chief executive of the British Fashion Council, predicts that, "a lot of other designers will do
the same thing as Paul. It's a sensible option to follow if a designer has the space to do it." He went on to
say, "London Fashion Week is a lot different than it was a week ago, but the world must try and continue and we
must support the industry and business by carrying on."
Designers Tristian Webber, Arkadius and John Rocha all confirmed that their shows will take place.
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