Paul Smith Launches Fashion Residency Program in the US with CFDA

## Expansion of the Fashion Residency Program

British designer Paul Smith has broadened the scope of his Fashion Residency initiative to include students from the United States. In collaboration with the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), the second edition of this program will see the Paul Smith Foundation select one American designer to join the residency at Studio Smithfield in London.

### Benefits of the Residency

The inaugural US participant, part of the Paul Smith’s Foundation x CFDA Designer-in-Residence program, will share a 400 square foot studio space with six designers from the UK for a year. This residency, supported by Projekt, offers extensive benefits, including mentorship from industry experts, business planning training, a visa, flights, and living expenses.

### Application Process

Applications for this second cohort are now open. Shortlisted candidates aligned with CFDA will begin interviews in September 2025. The selection process will be supervised by Paul Smith, CFDA president Steven Kolb, and Sara Kozlowski, who manages program strategies and educational initiatives at the CFDA.

### The Vision Behind the Residency

Launched in 2024, the Fashion Residency program at Studio Smithfield was established by Paul Smith in partnership with the Mayor of London and Projekt. This initiative aims to provide emerging designers access to workspace and a tailored training program, connecting them with seasoned professionals in the fashion industry.

In a statement, Kolb remarked, “Fashion is truly a global business, and this opportunity will give one American talent invaluable experience and exposure in an international market. Collaborating with peers in the UK encourages creative exchange, nurtures cross-cultural understanding, and strengthens our industry as a whole. We greatly appreciate Sir Paul Smith’s ongoing commitment to cultivating the next generation of talent.”