Scene Setting: This was the second time that the palatial confines of London’s Lancaster House have played host to a Simone Rocha runway show. It’s an assured setting for an equally assured designer, who presented a confident and well-rounded collection for A/W 2017. Models paraded on plush, crest-woven carpets through gilded doors, revealing an inspired line-up of military-inspired outerwear, fuzzy-toed Lucite heels and novel variations on her signature Victoriana dresses.
Mood board: After the show, the Irish-born, London-based designer spoke of her desire to ‘be inclusive’ with her output. This was not only reflected in the versatile separates on display, but also in the model casting – which featured a dynamic spectrum of women of all ages. Seasoned talents such as Jamie Bochert, Jan de Villeneuve, Cecilia Chancellor and Audrey Marnay walked alongside this season’s emerging faces, delivering an empowering message of unity and strength. ‘Armour, camouflage, foliage. Peace, peace of mind,’ affirmed the poetic programme notes.
Finishing touches: On the whole, shoes and accessories showed great progression this season. There was something to satisfy the appetite of every woman: jewelled sliders, tweed brogues and soft cuddle clutches in the shape of flowers and bows. Yet it was a quiet cross-body bag that spoke volumes – rendered in supple black leather with discreet fastenings.