There’s no slowing down Simon Porte Jacquemus. From new boutiques to collabs to limited-edition collections, the French designer’s impressive momentum is keeping fans on their toes and on the lookout for each new project.
Jacquemus always knows how to find a key to our hearts. Blending the classic elegance of the South of France with contemporary Parisian charm, the designer maintains a signature aesthetic but without compromise, and keeps on making fashion experiments. What is more, Jacquemus’ personal approach to running the brand’s social media, and the quirky and creative approach to campaigns, shows and collaborations has captured the attention of fashion lovers worldwide. One of his key ingredients are his viral products and moments that take over online fashion discourse for weeks – even months - think Le Chicito, a micro handbag released in 2017, worn by celebrities like Bella Hadid and Kim Kardashian or the giant La Bomba straw hat, as well as campaigns like the one for the inflatable bag and bags on wheels, and this summer’s Pampelonne Indie Beach Club collaboration.
But it’s not just fans buzzing about Jacquemus – industry insiders are, too. Rumours suggest Simon Jacquemus could be a contender for the next Creative Director of Chanel, following Virginie Viard’s abrupt departure. Other creatives rumoured to be candidates for the role include Hedi Slimane, Matthieu Blazy, Luc and Lucie Meier. Whether Jacquemus or someone else takes the reins, one thing’s certain: Chanel’s next move will have the fashion world talking. If he does end up in the role, there’s no telling how that might affect his brand, and especially his own involvement in it. But as of today, Jacquemus continues to thrive, riding the wave of success and desirability while expanding their horizons both creatively and geographically.
This year has been monumental for the young designer. This summer Simon opened his very first boutique in the Middle East in partnership with Chalhoub Group, on the first floor of Dubai Mall. In October fans lined up in droves for the opening of Jacquemus’ New York boutique, located on 143 Spring Street, the 19th-century townhouse sits in the lively and artistic district of Soho. Not even a month later, the designer unveiled his latest venture: a four-storey boutique in London’s Mayfair. Located at 33 New Bond Street, the store occupies a historic building that previously housed an art gallery. Inside, the design merges Mediterranean warmth with Victorian charm. The boutique also doubles as an art gallery, with nearly 50 curated pieces handpicked by Simon Jacquemus himself.
Jacquemus has perfected the sunny South of France, and Parisian city-life looks, so how about Alpine chic? As the festive season approaches, Jacquemus proves that he can style any season with the launch of a limited-edition holiday collection, Winter Retreat. Featuring cosy knitwear, fun accessories, toys and reimagined Jacquemus classics, the line offers the perfect mix of stylish and snug. Highlights include reimagined versions of Jacquemus’ iconic bags, such as the Pochette Rond Carré in shearling and Le Bisou Mini with chain accents. Accessories like a cross-through scarf and soft white gloves capture the essence of a cosy winter escape. Jacquemus never misses when it comes to iconic collaborations; two of which appear in this collection alone. To keep warm in the snow, choose from two Jacquemus x Moon Boot styles, one in faux fur and another in mohair.
The other collaboration is with Trudon, the oldest candle maker in the world, a perfect blend of heritage and modern design. Trudon’s iconic Abd El Kader fragrance is reimagined in Jacquemus’ signature cream hue. The scent, chosen by the designer himself, combines top notes of fresh mint, lemon, ginger, blackcurrant, and apple with jasmine as the heart note, and vanilla as the base. To Jacquemus, it evokes the breezy charm of the South of France while adding to the warm and spicy holiday ambience. If that sounds alluring, stop by one of Trudon’s Parisian boutiques to take a whiff in person, or shop the exclusive candle along with the rest of the collection online.
In the future, we expect to see much more from Simon Porte Jacquemus, whether he continues in his current path building the fashion empire of his own name or opens a new chapter of his career accepting a stint at a heritage brand, he’s likely to stay relevant, desirable and viral. Stay in the know for more.
Courtesy: Jacquemus
Text: Leilani Streshinsky