Few female designers start their fashion career by launching a menswear line, but that is just what Margaret Howell did after she found an old, but beautifully made men’s shirt at a rummage sale. In 1972, with just two employees, she began designing and producing her own men’s shirts. Ralph Lauren and Paul Smith were among her wholesale clients, and she was able to open her own shop with a full range of menswear by 1977. Howell’s Paris presentation for F/W 2011 is a continuation of her love for British craftsmanship and quality, and also her ability to take those traditions and create garments that appear relaxed and lived-in. Heathered knits and turtlenecks, a chunky cable knit cardigan with wooden buttons, and dark cuffed jeans are a casual counterpoint to the dress pants with sharp creases and herringbone tweed blazers. The color palette of browns, black, navy, taupe, and olive green are reminiscent of the quiet colors of the English landscape that inspires her. The outerwear, such as single-breasted wool coats, an olive green anorak and a warm brown shearling, top off the collection.