Irish fashion visionary Simone Rocha recently captivated audiences at London Fashion Week with her Spring/Summer 2026 collection, presented within the majestic confines of the Lord Mayor's official residence. Known for her impeccable choice of historical settings, Rocha once again created an unforgettable atmosphere, allowing her ethereal designs to sweep through the venerable halls of the nearly 300-year-old building.
For this collection, Rocha delved into the complex emotions of transitioning from childhood to young adulthood. Her creative process was influenced by Justine Kurland's photographic exploration of girlhood in 'Girl Pictures' (2020) and Maureen Freely's 'My Dress Rehearsal: or How Mrs. Clarke Taught Me How to Sew.' This inspiration translated into a palette of soft pastels and a juxtaposition of structured organza skirts with fluid, shimmering silver dresses. Designs showcased playful elements such as models clutching silk pillows or casually folding their arms, while plastic capes offered a modern twist to bow-trimmed coats. Exquisite ballgowns were unexpectedly paired with printed long-sleeve tops, and floral appliques adorned ruffled shirts and embellished hot pants, adding layers of whimsy and intricate detail.
A notable highlight of the presentation was Rocha's latest collaboration with Crocs, which brought forth a unique blend of romantic platform ballerinas and rugged, gorp-inspired trailbreak hybrids. These innovative footwear designs, along with Rocha's distinctive pearlescent embellishments, are slated for a later release this year, promising to bring her artistic vision to a wider audience. The collection masterfully intertwined themes of youthful innocence with an undercurrent of subtle unease, presenting a fresh and compelling narrative in contemporary womenswear.
Simone Rocha's Spring/Summer 2026 collection serves as a testament to her unique ability to infuse historical grandeur with contemporary relevance. Her designs invite observers to ponder the journey of self-discovery and the beautiful complexities of growth, offering a sophisticated yet playful interpretation of modern femininity that resonates deeply and inspires new perspectives on fashion as an art form.