Simone Says
You may have purchased a saccharine pink coat for winter without quite understanding this unusual deviation from the customary black, navy or greige. Look no further than the prodigy of John Rocha, Simone. Already making tidal waves across the Irish Sea, Rocha the Younger is expanding on her impressive portfolio with an intriguing capsule collection for denim conglomerate J Brand. With several boast-worthy, high-profile collaborations (including Christopher Kane) already under its belt, J Brand’s late 2014 endeavour will undoubtedly sweeten Rocha’s sales targets. www.simonerocha.com
Perspextives
It hasn’t gone unnoticed that Perspex is the latest in a long line of unexpected ‘in vogue’ materials. An early adopter of the substantial plastic embellishment is our very own Joanne Hynes, hand-stitched onto pieces from her recent 11 Collection. Hynes has used Perspex in her collections since 2001 (on the heels of flat leather brogues in her Saint Martin days) and has continued that love affair. Now in the midst of completing her AW 2014 Collection, Hynes has some curveballs up her sleeve, featuring sneak peeks on her Instagram and Twitter feeds. Expect intricate patchwork adorning sturdy neoprene. www.joannehynes.com
Young Blood
Apart from the requisite jittery pre-show nerves, there is a notable absence of fear prior to a designer’s first major showcase. It marks the jumping off point, the clean slate, a haven for unadulterated creativity. One of the most successful university events, the annual DIT Fashion Show, will play host to a hand-picked selection of young designers eager to promote their wares. Judges will include Brendan Courtney and Bairbre Power, with the winner receiving a €2500 grant to aid their designs. 3rd April, tickets from €15 are available from www.eventbrite.ie
Words: Niamh McNeela
