Simone Rocha

Simone Rocha is a London-based designer who established her namesake label in 2010 following her education at Central Saint Martins and her debut with the Fashion East incubator. The house achieved rapid international success for its sophisticated and narrative-driven approach to womenswear, characterised by intricate lace, pearl embellishments, and a mastery of traditional textiles. Notable for its ability to combine Irish and Chinese cultural heritages with a modern sense of ease, the label has become a prominent voice on the London Fashion Week schedule.

Simone Rocha is notable for its presence in the worlds of art and literature, maintaining an independent and authorial creative direction that prioritises material quality and technical mastery. The label works across womenswear, ready-to-wear, footwear, and accessories. Recurring signatures include lace. The brand is characterised by its use of custom-developed fabrics and a preference for silhouettes that balance classical structure with an experimental and often voluminous edge. Collections encompass a comprehensive range of ready-to-wear, footwear, and accessories, distributed through a global network of selective luxury retailers.

Simone Rocha’s philosophy is to explore and modernise femininity. She juxtaposes traditionally “pretty” elements such as florals, lace and pearls with unexpected materials and dark motifs, creating tension between fragility and strength. Rocha believes in putting women at the centre of her work: casting diverse models and designing garments that celebrate different body shapes, ages and identities. Her collections often reference female artists, historical narratives and her Irish-Chinese heritage, weaving storytelling and personal symbolism into garments.

She values independence and integrity, operating her business without external investors to remain true to her vision. Rocha works closely with artisans in the UK and abroad, emphasising meticulous craftsmanship and small-scale production. Recent collections have addressed themes such as motherhood, Irish folklore and female resilience, demonstrating that fashion can be both personal and political. She has also experimented with upcycled materials and sustainable packaging as part of her commitment to responsible practices. Narrative and cultural reference operate here as structuring devices rather than decorative afterthoughts.