Taking inspiration from the godfather of cinema Federico Fellini, the new Simone Rocha x Moncler Genius collection is a dark, twisted fantasy. 

The Moncler Genius initiative has seen the historic Italian brand continue to push the boundaries of design as they collaborate with some of the biggest and most exciting new names in the fashion industry. Traditional puffer jackets were reimagined and pushed to the limits of design. There were the voluminous gowns from Valentino’s Pierpaolo Piccioli. The wind sales from London designer Craig Green. Richard Quinns eccentric creations and J.W.Anderson’s distinctive designs. 

As the brand releases new collaborations throughout the year, we spoke with Simone Rocha ahead of the launch of her latest design collection. On finding inspiration and reinterpretting the traditional codes of Moncler into the Simone Rocha world she discusses how she landed at a place full of fantasy, of dark elements and light femininity. Tulle dresses that envelop the body set against hooded jackets that cloak the head. 

It’s the merging of two differing minds in one moody romance. 

What were your initial inspirations for this collection?

I was inspired by movement and dance, femininity and the fantasy of dress. And Fellini and how I could challenge those thoughts and balance them with Moncler's codes. There was tulle and tutu shapes contrasted with outerwear to balance the femininity with utility.

What about creating for Moncler most appealed to you as a designer?

I was inspired by the opportunity to work with experts in their field. I was excited to explore the Simone Rocha aesthetic in new fabrications and a new genre.

How did you capture both the Simone Rocha and Moncler spirit at once?

This collection was a further development on combining the Simone Rocha aesthetic with the functionality and technical capabilities of Moncler. Each collection has combined these elements in new ways as I explored the classic Down fabric in different weights and explored different techniques of manipulation. This time I was thinking how I could challenge those thoughts and balance them with Moncler's codes. There was tulle and tutu shapes contrasted with outerwear to balance the femininity with utility.

What’s the hardest part of the design process? And the fashion industry as a whole?

There are always challenges and the world is changing all the time. It is key to stay true to yourself and your creative identity whilst being aware and adaptable.

Tell us about your creative space, and your working routine. What do you need in order to create?

I have a studio in Hackney in London. I am in the studio working with my team most days. We work closely together from the initial stages of developing fabrications and embroideries, to pattern work for silhouettes and bringing together with embellishment and accessories. I am lucky to work with both my team and my family.

What’s inspiring you now – anything you’re listening to, reading, or looking at?

I am constantly inspired by art, nature, Ireland, Hong Kong and my family. I play a lot of music in the studio – Billie Holiday, Radiohead, Babeheaven and Nina Simone are favourites.