LOS ANGELES, Apr 4, 2003/ FW/ --- There is much to say about Paul Hardy’s showmanship – not to mention his Fall 2003 fashion line.

When the lights went out at the beginning of his show a dialogue began over the loudspeaker depicting the beginnings of mankind’s evolution and included a quote from the Biblical passage John 9: “He anointed the eyes of the blind man with clay.”

And there, as if our minds had created a reality, came his first model wearing a fur coat and footwear that appeared to be directly from the Stone Age.

Gradually the designs advanced, becoming more modern while still maintaining the same primordial core.

During the course of the show everyone was treated to an array of clothing ranging from furs to suede to knit. His palate preference was warm soothing earth tones.

Of Hardy’s suede styles, a few standouts were a flirtatious short pleated suede skirt and a pair of baggy suede pants that lightly flared at the bottom. The pants were appealing and smart, great for a night out on the town.

What really captured the eye during Hardy’s show, however, was not the fur or suede: it was his excellence with knit. It’s amazing Hardy has not yet earned the title “The Sweater Man.”

This young designer has created some of the most fantastic sweaters seen this season. Each sweater was made using solid earth colors creating a look that was not only stylish but also comfortable and deceptively simple.

The variety of his sweaters was outstanding. Among the best of his collection were a long sleeved wrap-around sweater and a sweater with fastenings along the back. The many textures Hardy’s sweaters bore were delightful and creative. Perfect for the down-to-earth consumer who wants comfort and style.