Simon Porte Jacquemus Turns Personal History Into Runway Poetry With SS26 “Le Paysan”

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Summary

  • Jacquemus’ SS26 “Le Paysan” collection pays tribute to Simon’s rural upbringing and family heritage
  • Womenswear and menswear blend rustic elegance with skilled craftsmanship and Provençal playfulness
  • Accessories nod to French countryside life with whimsical produce-inspired designs and artisanal finishes

In the grand and majestic setting of L’Orangerie at Château de Versailles, Jacquemus’ Spring/Summer 2026 collection, titled “Le Paysan” (The Peasant), is unveiled as a heartfelt homage to designer Simon Porte Jacquemus‘ countryside roots.

Drawing upon his upbringing in the sun-drenched South of France, this collection beautifully merges recollections and creativity, transforming the tranquil verses of rustic life into sculpted silhouettes and richly textured tailoring. It encapsulates deeply personal influences from Simon’s past: photo albums brimming with images of harvests, his grandmother’s sophisticated style, and the soothing sensation of crisp, ironed cotton on a Sunday afternoon. On Instagram, Simon expressed his desire to craft an autobiographical tale for June: one that starts in the idyllic countryside, gentle and minimalistic, with linen forming the base. As it evolves, it bursts forth into a riot of candy-colored hues, stripes, embroidery, and patterns. A myriad of colors unfold, all interconnected, culminating in a truly couture ensemble.

This women’s collection features generous bell-shaped dresses, reversed tulle aprons, and structured jackets with built-in half-corsets. Poplin fabric is cut into geometric patterns resembling old linens, intricately embroidered, dotted, and monogrammed.

Exquisite craftsmanship can be seen in unique pieces such as the rare tulle bobbin dress made of 700 meters of thread and a sheer mousseline gown embellished with silk taffeta diamonds. These textured pieces are enhanced by sculptural tassels and handmade embellishments, which evoke a rustic yet elegant charm. Leather tassels and detailed structures add to the collection’s folk-inspired elegance.

Simultaneously, the men’s clothing collection seems to embody a Marcel Pagnol character reborn: rustic yet refined. Jackets are tailored short and trousers wide, crafted from breezy linens and delicate leathers, adorned with striped stitching or subtle herringbone patterns. The color scheme is thoughtfully chosen with shades of milky white, cream, and black, complemented by fresh tones of blue, pink, and yellow, akin to sugared almonds and traditional Berlingot stripes.

The rustic charm is amplified with berets, Arlesian shawls, and espadrilles adorned with grosgrain ribbons, giving a hint of playful absurdity as market-themed motifs like leather leeks, garlic garlands, and fruit-shaped jewelry are incorporated. The iconic woven bags from Jacquemus resurface in Provencal fabrics, accompanied by a fresh addition, the “Le Valerie” handbag, named after the designer’s mother.

In addition to its visual narrative, “Le Paysan” serves as a heartfelt return for Jacquemus to his personal past. By revisiting and revitalizing shapes and motifs from prior collections, the designer traces back to the foundations that influenced him. The result is a collection that brims with deep emotion, matched by its impeccable attention to detail.

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2025-06-30 10:26