Simone Rocha: The Age of Grace and Turning Point
For her SS26 collection, Simone Rocha captures the poetry and awkwardness of the transition to adulthood. A narrative and delicate wardrobe, available at Actuel B.
Presenting her designs beneath the ornate ceilings of Mansion House, the official residence of the Lord Mayor of London built in 1739, was no accident. Simone Rocha has always loved contrasts, and particularly the contrast of setting her creations in places of absolute classicism in order to better subvert their conventions. "I like to place my work where it seems to belong, while simultaneously being profoundly foreign to it," she confided after her Spring/Summer 2026 show.
While last season focused on childhood fairy tales, this new collection explores a fascinating and intimate zone of turbulence: the transition from childhood to adulthood. The London-based designer immersed herself in the pages of Entering the Masquerade , and more specifically in Maureen Freely's essay, to dissect this often awkward and forced social performance that every young girl experiences at some point.
The poetry of clumsiness
At Actuel B, we've always been drawn to Simone Rocha's ability to tell stories through clothing. This season, that storytelling takes the form of a quiet rebellion. The opening looks set the tone: floral organza skirts mounted on crinolines are paired with sequined bralettes that slip nonchalantly off the shoulder. A brilliant textile reinterpretation of the awkwardness of those first school dances, enhanced by asymmetrical necklaces and delicate tiaras worn like makeshift costumes.
Clothing becomes armor or refuge. The models crossed the room with their arms crossed, clutching silk cushions that concealed ingenious handbags. A deliberately stooped posture, enhanced by haphazard makeup, celebrates the fragility of puberty with exquisite precision.
The affirmation of the Rocha signatures
But adolescence always eventually gives way to a more assertive femininity. Throughout the collection, uncertainty fades, replaced by masterful pieces. A chartreuse green dress with hips exaggerated by padding, or long sequined silhouettes where the crinoline redefines the very architecture of the body.
Loyal fans of the house will also find the signature elements that define Simone Rocha: pristine cotton poplin covered in vinyl floral prints, quilted ensembles enhanced with the now-iconic little black bows, and evening satin adorned with graphic Icelandic poppies. These are all key pieces deeply rooted in the brand's DNA, while also engaging with the more youthful silhouettes in this collection.
Season after season, Simone Rocha has crafted an intimate epic of femininity. A pivotal and deeply moving chapter that we are delighted to welcome today.
