Simone Rocha found inspiration close to home for her spring 2017 collection — a recent exhibit in her native Ireland that featured photographs and paintings of farm girls.
It is a source the designer drew upon when she reimagined the Wellington boot for her London Fashion Week presentation on Sept. 17.
What is considered a British countryside classic was reworked into a variety of shapes and forms, including bright red PVC, cracked or perforated white leather, as well as pairs with cutout panels. By matching the boots with chiffon and organza gowns that channel the sense of distorted beauty she is known for, Rocha created a cool and very much unexpected contrast.
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The collection ranged from romantic broderie anglaise ruffled dresses, diaphanous chiffon pieces with puffed shoulders and chunky knots, and deconstructed organza dresses that were adorned with flowers — presenting the designer’s alternative vision of wedding and baptismal gowns.
Additions of tailoring elements, in the form of a checked jacket with a contrasting broderie anglaise sleeve, for instance, enhanced the element of surprise that ran throughout the show.
Also on display were Rocha’s signature mannish brogues and Mary Jane pumps, which were also given a perverse touch by being matched with embroidered frilly socks.
Click through the gallery below to see more styles from the runway.
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