- Paul Smith has designed a set of new colour-blocked Mini Coopers, bringing his ‘classic with a twist’ ethos to the fourth generation hatchback
- Paul Smith and Mini have been collaborating since 1998, with the Mini Paul Smith Edition marking their fourth collaboration
- The capsule comes with three exterior options and two roof options, with the production-ready collaboration available on all Mini Cooper 3-door, 5-door and Convertible models (both ICE and electric)
While there was over two decades between the first and second collaborations between Mini and Paul Smith, the duo seem to have established a good cadence, linking up for the third time in four years. The British icons initially teamed up on the striking blue Mini Paul Smith in 1998, before creating the essentialist Mini Strip concept in 2021, and the Mini Recharged by Paul Smith in 2022, with the latter referencing the original design of 1998.
The latest team up is particularly special though, as this marks the first time the British fashion designer’s vision for the British marque can be purchased. Described as “British with a twist,” the collaboration sees Paul Smith apply his colourful method to the fourth generation Mini Cooper. Available across the full Mini Cooper lineup—comprising 3-door, 5-door, and convertible, in both electric and combustion engine formats—the Mini Paul Smith Edition comes in three exterior options.
There’s Statement Grey, a clear, bluish-tinted grey that acts as a modern interpretation of the classic Mini Austin Seven colour from 1959; Inspired White, a contemporary tribute to the classic Mini Beige shade; and Midnight Black Metallic, a pre-existing colour in the current production line.
This trio can be paired with one of two roof options; the standout Nottingham Green, which references Smith’s hometown, and Jet Black. The Nottingham Green shade is used as an accent colour regardless of variant, appearing on the side mirrors, grille surround, and wheel hub covers (inscribed with ‘Paul Smith’ in the designer’s signature optimistic typography).
Other charming details include Paul Smith’s colourful ‘Signature Stripe’ above the rear window on the driver’s side on the Nottingham Green roof option, the winged Mini logo appears in a cool new Blue Black shade, and Smith’s signature is scrawled across the black horizontal handle strip at the rear.
Opening the door, the driver and front passenger are greeted with “Hello” puddle lights in Smith’s handwriting, with the handwritten details extending inside. Paul Smith’s handwritten motto “Everyday is a new beginning” appears on the sills, while a hand drawn rabbit sits on the floor mat.
The steering wheel is finished with a textile band in Smith’s signature striped design, while the Vescin (a synthetic leather alternative) sports seats appear in Nightshade Blue and have knitted textile in the shoulder and headrest areas.
The Mini Paul Smith Edition will be available for purchase from 2026 onwards, with a capsule collection of bags inspired by the collaboration now available via Paul Smith.
Words by Henry Blake
