The House of Paul & Joe was founded by Sophie Mechaly in 1995, inspired by her family, particularly her two sons. At just 19, Sophie began her fashion journey with the iconic Azzedine Alaïa, which shaped her design philosophy. Paul & Joe stands out for its timeless elegance and commitment to quality craftsmanship, avoiding fleeting trends. The brand expanded internationally by opening stores in major cities like London and New York, and it introduced diverse product lines, from menswear to cosmetics. If you're curious about how Sophie's vision continues to evolve, there's so much more to explore!
Founder Sophie Mechaly

Beginning her journey in the fashion world at just 19, Sophie Mechaly quickly made a name for herself after working with the legendary designer Azzedine Alaïa. This early experience ignited her passion for fashion and set the stage for her future success.
After honing her skills, Sophie joined her family's clothing business, Le Garage, which was famous for its iconic printed shirts. This foundation in a family business taught her the value of hard work, a principle that would be integral to her brand's philosophy.
In 1995, Sophie launched her own brand, Paul & Joe, named after her two sons. From the start, she focused on creating timeless fashion that blends classic prints and elegant finishes. Unlike many designers who chase fleeting trends, Sophie emphasizes a commitment to styles that endure, ensuring her collections resonate with customers year after year.
Under her leadership, Paul & Joe expanded internationally, showcasing a diverse range of products that includes menswear, womenswear, and even beauty products.
The brand's appeal lies not just in its stylish offerings but also in its ability to reflect the hard work and dedication Sophie pours into every piece. As you explore the world of Paul & Joe, you'll discover how Sophie Mechaly's vision and commitment to quality have shaped the brand into a beloved name in the fashion industry.
Brand Vision and Philosophy
Sophie Mechaly's dedication to quality and timeless design laid the groundwork for Paul & Joe's brand vision and philosophy. The brand aims to blend classic prints and finishes, creating a timeless fashion experience that resonates with independent and curious individuals.
Rooted in a family business founded by Sophie's parents in the 1980s, hard work remains a core value, emphasizing the importance of craftsmanship and quality.
At Paul & Joe, you'll find a philosophy that champions individuality and self-expression. The collections intentionally avoid fleeting seasonal trends, allowing you to embrace pieces that reflect your unique style.
Here are some key elements of the brand vision:
- Craftsmanship and Quality: Each piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
- Timeless Fashion: The designs transcend trends, making them lasting wardrobe staples.
- High-Quality Fabrics: Most clothing is produced in France using premium fabrics sourced primarily from Italy.
- Nostalgia and Innovation: The brand artfully combines traditional influences with modern innovation, appealing to a sophisticated clientele.
- Family Values: The legacy of a family business infuses the brand with authenticity and warmth.
In essence, Paul & Joe represents a fusion of tradition and innovation. This approach not only celebrates beauty and sophistication but also invites you to explore fashion that resonates with your personal narrative.
Embrace the spirit of Paul & Joe, where quality and self-expression come together beautifully.
Expansion of Paul & Joe

Since its inception, Paul & Joe has steadily expanded its reach, becoming a global brand that resonates with diverse audiences. The brand kicked off its international expansion in 1999 with a franchise in Japan, paving the way for the opening of stores in London in 2000 and New York in 2001. This strategic move allowed Paul & Joe to tap into new markets, enhancing its brand visibility across continents.
In 2002, Paul & Joe diversified its offerings by launching a cosmetics line, Paul & Joe Beaute, followed by a perfume line in 2003. These additions not only enriched the brand's portfolio but also attracted a wider range of customers.
The introduction of the Little Paul & Joe collection in 2005 marked the brand's foray into children's clothing, broadening its market reach and appealing to families.
In 2006, the launch of Paul & Joe Sister introduced a more casual and playful fashion option, capturing the interest of a younger demographic keen for trendy attire. Notable collaborations, such as partnerships with Target in 2006 and Urban Outfitters in 2011, further boosted the brand's visibility and accessibility, allowing more people to experience the charm of Paul & Joe.
Through these strategic expansions and thoughtful collaborations, Paul & Joe has successfully created a vibrant and diverse fashion landscape, connecting with audiences who appreciate its unique blend of playful fashion and quality.
Commitment to Craftsmanship
At Paul & Joe, craftsmanship isn't just a buzzword; it's the foundation of everything they create. With a deep commitment to quality, the brand guarantees that each piece reflects an artisanal touch, making it truly special. By producing most of their clothing in France, they collaborate with about 20 workshops near Paris, which allows them to maintain exceptional attention to detail.
Paul & Joe sources 50% of its fabrics from Italy, while the rest comes from esteemed French embroidery houses. This careful selection highlights their dedication to high-quality materials. You can't help but appreciate the hand-stitched detailing that adorns their suit jackets, blazers, and coats, showcasing inspiration from traditional couture techniques.
Here's what sets Paul & Joe apart regarding craftsmanship:
- Artisanal craftsmanship: Every garment is a labor of love.
- Quality fabrics: Sourced from the best mills in Italy and France.
- Hand-stitched detailing: A hallmark that enhances elegance.
- Workshops in Paris: Local artisans create magic in the heart of the city.
- Attention to detail: Guarantees each piece is thoughtfully designed.
The workshop on Rue Commines in the Marais district serves as the creative heartbeat of Paul & Joe. Their focus on quality and craftsmanship builds customer loyalty, proving that when you invest in well-crafted garments, you're not just buying clothes; you're embracing art.
With every piece, you feel the commitment that defines Paul & Joe, making each item a timeless addition to your wardrobe.
Diverse Product Lines

Paul & Joe has embraced diversity in its product lines, catering to a wide audience with offerings that extend beyond traditional fashion. Since its founding by Sophie Albou, the brand has expanded to include menswear, womenswear, and even children's clothing, ensuring everyone can find something they love.
The Paul & Joe Beauté line, launched in 2001, showcases quality formulas in beautifully packaged products, often adorned with signature prints and limited collector's editions that fans adore.
In 1995, the Paul & Joe Homme collection made its debut, focusing on timeless, tailored pieces with a modern twist, and since 2022, it's been led by artistic director Adrien Albou. This collection speaks to men who appreciate both style and substance.
Then there's the Paul & Joe Sister line, introduced in 2006, which takes a more casual and playful approach to fashion. It offers affordable options while still maintaining the brand's unique identity.
Moreover, the brand ventured into eyewear in 2009, combining stylish designs with functionality. This line successfully caters to customers of all ages, appealing to both domestic and international markets.