Simone Rocha, known for her distinctive sense of subversive femininity, has carved out a highly personal space in the fashion system thanks to a sharp and minimal aesthetic that often incorporates clean color palettes and experimental fabrics, such as wrapped cellophane and embroidered lace. Born in Dublin, her creative visions also evoke the Irish landscapes, later translated into embroidered patterns on fabrics that recall stories of a bygone era; the volumes she adopts echo those from the turn of the late 1800s and early 1900s, exaggerated with strategic ruching and pleating. Her aestheticism also explores the world of tailoring with layered garments, featuring both internal and external seams, to exaggerate the oversized volumes of her clothes, portraying a multifaceted femininity, sensual yet refined. On October 15, 2024, Rizzoli will publish a monograph entirely dedicated to her creative universe and career.
“I didn’t want it to be just a fashion picture book. I wanted there to be quite a lot more: a documentation of my work and process, and some of the original inspirations for the collections”.
The book Simone Rocha, with contributions from Cindy Sherman, Petra Collins, Tim Blanks, and Ed Templeton, is the first comprehensive work dedicated to the career of the Irish designer. After graduating in Fashion Design from Central Saint Martins in London, Rocha presented her first collection in 2010, immediately capturing the attention of fashion experts and industry influencers – including Adrian Joffe. Rocha’s creations are born from the deep and lush essence of her homeland, Ireland, and are characterized by an intense, captivating, and almost dreamlike femininity: the garments she sculpts from layers of embroidered tulle, or the bands of tweed she transforms into shaped coats, always present a strongly contemporary vision of femininity, one that is subversive rather than simply feminine, speaking of a relaxed approach. Her designs have attracted a new audience that includes personalities such as Rihanna, FKA Twigs, Billie Eilish, and Chloë Sevigny. Brogue shoes with platforms, voluminous dresses with an almost Gothic flair, and pearl-shaped bags have significantly increased the visibility of her work. This book offers a deep and reflective look into Rocha’s subversive world, heavily influenced by the works of Louise Bourgeois and, without a doubt, by Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons. The monograph collects runway images, interviews, family collaborations, editorial projects, reflections in the form of haikus, and behind-the-scenes shots, perfectly capturing the dark and intriguing atmosphere of the world she has built. An essential work for any creative enthusiast, the monograph follows in the footsteps of Rizzoli’s great editorial successes, having previously published books dedicated to designers such as Ann Demeulemeester, Rick Owens, Jun Takahashi, and Maison Martin Margiela.
“I’ve always felt very influenced by my father’s love of fabrication and textile, and a kinship with his work and world. But the femininity, the narrative, behind what I do always feel like they were a part of me since I was a child”.
DOCUMENTED BY JACOB LILLIS.
DOCUMENTED BY JACOB LILLIS.
DOCUMENTED BY JACOB LILLIS.
DOCUMENTED BY JACOB LILLIS.
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