Mini Paul Smith Edition (2025): Special model with knitwear
Mini and Paul Smith have a long history. In 1999, the fashion designer was responsible for a special edition to mark the 40th anniversary of the classic Mini. The little British car came in the Signature Stripe design, featuring 86 horizontal stripes in 26 colors, Paul Smith signatures, and its own emblem. It looked a bit like Sesame Street's Ernie sweater or Mom's old corduroy sofa.
The car was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show (now the Japan Mobility Show). Supermodel Kate Moss called the design "very Paul Smith." The collaboration between Mini and the fashion designer has been a recurring theme – including the Mini Strip in 2021. A new chapter will follow at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo in the form of the new Mini Paul Smith Edition – but with considerably more understatement than before.
Mini and Paul Smith share not only their heritage, but also a love of craftsmanship and attention to detail.
"It's not often that two icons of British design collaborate in this way, and it's wonderful that our partnership has endured for so many years. The Mini Paul Smith Edition was a real privilege and a wonderful opportunity—new colors and new unexpected details bring a welcome surprise," explains Sir Paul Smith about the collaboration and the new design.
The new edition is available in three exterior colors: Statement Grey, a modern interpretation of the 1959 Austin Seven Grey; Inspired White, a homage to the classic Mini beige; and Midnight Black Metallic from the current Mini portfolio. Nottingham Green, named after Smith's hometown, provides contrast. This color adorns the mirror caps, radiator grille, wheel hubs, and—depending on the version—the roof.
Mini Cooper SE - Paul Smith Edition
Image by: Mini
Mini Cooper SE - Paul Smith Edition
Image by: Mini
Pictures by: Mini
Alternatively, there's a roof with varying widths of black stripes in matte and gloss. All models ride on 18-inch Night Spoke wheels with a dark clear coat. Mini logos in a new shade called Black Blue and Paul Smith's signature on the rear complete the exterior design.
Interior with British understatementThe designer's signature is also evident inside. Knitted surfaces on the dashboard and door panels incorporate signature Paul Smith fabrics with tone-on-tone stripes. The Nightshade Blue sports seats are made of Vescin synthetic leather, combined with knitted textile on the shoulder and headrests.
Mini Cooper SE - Paul Smith Edition
Image by: Mini
Mini Cooper SE - Paul Smith Edition
Image by: Mini
Pictures by: Mini
Colored stitching on the steering wheel, which also made the classic Mini unmistakable, a hand-drawn "Rabbit" graphic on the floor mats, and specially created Paul Smith backgrounds in the round central display demonstrate a touch of attention to detail.
When the doors are opened, the special edition greets the driver and passenger with a light projection that reads "Hello" on the floor. Smith's motto, "Everyday is a new beginning," is emblazoned on the door sills.
To coincide with the vehicle's premiere, Smith is also launching a capsule collection of bags inspired by design elements of the new edition. The special edition will be available for almost all Cooper models starting in 2026—whether electric or conventional. Only the sporty John Cooper Works versions will be excluded.
Further art and design collaborations:
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