Simone Rocha returned to the Old Bailey this weekend to present her SS25 collection in the marbled halls of London’s Crown Court. Turning to carnations, ballet dancers and the work of Genieve Figgis as the focal point for this season, Rocha’s latest offering flirted with ideas of seduction and romance. Ahead of the show, guests received an invite printed with Figgis’ 2013 painting Lady with a Bird, which made its way onto the runway as a core print incorporated through Rocha’s collection. The abstract style of Figgis’ ghoulish figures relish in the macabre and are built from vibrant Pepto Bismol pink and siren red hues, the same colour palette of Rocha’s SS25 designs.

Classic Simone silhouettes were imbued with performative touches this season as voluminous tutu skirts were built from delicate organza, inside layers of transparent outerwear were decorated with pressed carnations and garments shimmered in tinsel-like fabrics. Sultry silk hot pants were met halfway by knee-high socks and ballet bump combos in a nod to a ballet dancer’s off-stage wardrobe, furthered by looks of full tulle skirts encased by sweeping car coats as if caught in a moment of calm before a show. Denim made its first appearance in for Rocha as oversized shorts and jacket co-ords for men and baggy jeans for women – all encrusted with crystals, obviously. Models walked with bouquets of flowers in hand, with the same floral motifs present on hair grips or collars, while carnation petals were used to form masks around the eyes. On foot, Rocha’s third Crocs collection made its debut, continuing to pioneer her roster of ugly shoe chic, adorning the slip-on shoes with jewel embellishments and metal hardware. As Rocha’s cast of models descended the stairs for the finale, Frankie Valli’s Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, epitomising our thoughts on the collection.