PAUL Smith is one of the biggest names in global fashion, with more than 265 stores across the world.

But the designer wants Glasgow residents to remember his "humble" roots - and he hopes they will be inspired by his success.

The 69-year-old was in the city to launch his touring exhibition called Hello My Name is Paul Smith.

The Evening Times was given access to the showcase, which features photographs and fashion among other items, at the Lighthouse.

It opens to the public on Wednesday. Organisers hope it will attract 10,000 visitors.

The exhibition draws on the designer's personal archive - including photographs of footballers and models - from the company's beginnings in Nottingham to its internationally renowned status today.

It offers an insight into Mr Smith's mind, with a visual room called Inside Paul's Head.

There is also a touching tribute to his wife Pauline in a recreation of the Parisian hotel suite where he sold his first collection in 1976.

The showcase also contains a recreation of Mr Smith's first shop in Byard Lane, which measured 3m x 3m and the original stripe Mini.

Mr Smith said he had an "affection" for Glasgow.

He said he wanted visitors to the exhibition to realise they "can do things in a more modest way".

He said: "I want people to come here and see that I've come from humble beginnings.

"We opened our first shop two times a week

"So we had £600 and we started that shop. I earned my living by doing freelance work and we just opened Friday and Saturday.

"By not relying on the shop for an income it made the shop special. We weren't having to pander to what people wanted. That was about understanding the balance between earning money and doing things which are special, innovative and unusual and that's a real important message for anyone.

"You need to get the balance of life right.

"That's why we're still there. We never wanted to be famous, we just wanted to sell a few more clothes."

Mr Smith also paid tribute to musician and friend David Bowie, who died after a battle with cancer a week last Sunday.

He said: "That was very sad. David Bowie was a good pal of mine and he wore lots of my clothes."

The exhibition runs until March 20.

Ian Elder, from the Lighthouse added: “It has been fantastic to be able to work with the Design Museum and Paul Smith to bring this exhibition to The Lighthouse.

"Glasgow has the busiest retail sector outside London so I am sure people will be delighted to have the opportunity to experience this fantastic exhibition.”

Tickets are £6 adults and £4 child/concession via thelighthouse.co.uk/hellopaulsmith.