February 18, 2018 |
There is always a sense of childlike wonder, of dressing up at Simone Rocha. This time, the child was growing up, teenager time. This collection played out moodier, darker, more complex. A fallen romance in an opulent setting. A princess in a palace, but this was Goldsmith’s Hall, a place that has authenticated incredible craftsmanship since 1300. Quality control. Simone Rocha is a guardian of the craft, her exquisite craft, creating beautiful, intricate pieces that tell us a strong story every time. Wonderfully feminine. This was festooned with appliquéd bows, the whole lot tailored and layered, ribbons tied and undone, the collection vibrated with new elements. Sheer organza dresses covered tailored jackets, edged with beads, and webs of black mourning lace crept into frilly, tiered dresses. Balmoral tartan reflected her ‘love for modern aristocracy,’ and all those Victorian vibes that lie at the core of a Simone Rocha collection. Her Autumn/ Winter 2018 Show was tempered with a boyishness seen in the men’s style double breasted jackets with jet beading, elbow length gloves and Peter Pan collars. It redefined pretty. Had us thinking of Little Lord Fauntleroy with all the white collars and foppish innoncence. One must be seen and not heard, yet somehow children rule in Rocha’s realm.
Photographs by Jason Lloyd Evans
