A Triptych: Simone Rocha AW24
Into the world of the bows, puffer jackets, and coquette dreamlike elements, Simone Rocha sets the bar even higher for the girls. Rocha’s previous collections utilize sheer tulle, nylon, satin, and other soft fabrics, as well as structured leather jackets and skirts. The designer is known for soft color palettes; pink, olive green, baby blue, but also classic black just to name a few. However, this collection leans away from some of these color choices.
Rocha showcases dainty, stringy ribbons across ball gowns that create an elaborate chandelier effect. The minimal amount of makeup keeps our attention on the outfits rather than the models themselves. The nod to the coquette aesthetic was apparent in the bows and frills in several of the model’s hair and around the upper bust area. “Indeed, many models cradled stuffed animals as if they couldn’t bear to part with their beloved toys after waking from a confusing slumber.”
This collection is filled with feminine allure and shows off these details in different ways. Some detailing is more translucent while others are more structured. The romantic collection was set at a perfect time, the actual show being the weekend after Valentine’s Day. “The Irish designer has carved out a specialty in delivering unapologetically girlish outfits that prove you can dress terrifically feminine.” The silhouette of Rocha’s collection displays her signature style. Puff-sleeved dresses that reach calf length, glittery ornamental needlework embellished in various places of different garments, lacing wove up the bodices, sculptural coats, and at least something in the color pink are all different ways I identify a classic Rocha garment. Capes of several varieties were also walked down the runway. Bubbly dresses and flowy blouses were crafted and cut to accentuate the overall shape, constriction, and fluidity. Fur trim detailing on the shoulders, hips, and arms is also a classy element that can show sophistication as well as allure.
Rocha continued her partnership with Crocs for the season. I know, I know, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, however, whether you are for them or against them, the jewel appliques platform slip-on shoes grounded the looks. These knitwear and bonnets are in ballet pink, fiery red, and classic black. These color choices serve to bring in the new season, leaving behind the fall weather. What I find interesting about that is that even though there are bright colors throughout the collection, the majority of it is in darker and cooler tones. The slouchy, single-strap bags grabbed my attention when I first viewed the collection.
The standout design from Rocha’s collection has to be the chocolate brown dress with a bubble-shaped bodice and short train. The shiny material caught my eye as well due to the simplicity of the design. It does not need bows, fur, nor anything else to make it stand out. It simply does.
The originality of the Irish designer is what I believe makes this collection unique and a new crowd favorite. Simone Rocha has outdone herself yet again and the fashion girlies can not get enough!
Words by Jade Pettyjohn
Graphic by Aubrey Lauer