Simon Porte Jacquemus' Spring/Summer 2026 collection, aptly named \"Le Paysan\" (The Peasant), was presented within the majestic setting of L’Orangerie at the Château de Versailles. This collection serves as a heartfelt homage to Jacquemus' humble beginnings and his deeply rooted connection to the French countryside. Through \"Le Paysan,\" the designer revisits and reinterprets personal memories from his upbringing in the South of France, infusing the runway with the serene essence of rural existence and the sophisticated grace found in simplicity. He articulated his vision via Instagram, aiming to embark on an \"autobiographical journey\" starting with minimalist linen and evolving into a vibrant display of colors, patterns, and intricate designs, culminating in a haute couture expression.
The collection showcases a diverse range of garments, with womenswear featuring voluminous petticoats, innovatively reversed tulle aprons, and precisely tailored jackets accented by internal half-corsets. Materials like poplin are meticulously cut into geometric patterns, adorned with delicate embroidery, dots, and monograms that evoke classic linen aesthetics. Highlights include a unique tulle bobbin dress, crafted from an impressive 700 meters of cord, and a sheer mousseline ensemble embellished with silk taffeta diamonds, emphasizing the collection's rich textures and artisanal flair. Meanwhile, the menswear line evokes the spirit of a refined country gentleman, offering cropped jackets and wide-leg trousers fashioned from airy linens and supple leathers, detailed with subtle pinstripes or herringbone weaves. The color palette, dominated by milky white, cream, and black, is enlivened by cheerful shades of blue, pink, and yellow, reminiscent of traditional French confections.
Complementing the apparel, the accessories enhance the pastoral theme with stylish berets, elegant Arlésian shawls, and espadrilles tied with grosgrain ribbons. Playful elements, such as leather vegetables and fruit-shaped jewelry, inject a touch of surrealism, celebrating the bounty of market stalls. Jacquemus’ signature woven bags reappear in textures inspired by Provence, alongside \"Le Valerie,\" a new sophisticated handbag named in honor of the designer's mother. \"Le Paysan\" is more than just a fashion statement; it is a profound journey back to Jacquemus' origins, where he reimagines familiar silhouettes and themes from his early works with enhanced artistry and a renewed sense of purpose, delivering a collection that is both deeply personal and aesthetically accomplished.
This collection, born from personal narrative and refined through exceptional craftsmanship, serves as a testament to the power of one's roots and the beauty of honoring one's heritage. It reminds us that true innovation often stems from a deep understanding and appreciation of where we come from, transforming cherished memories into works of art that resonate universally. By blending the past with the present, Jacquemus inspires us to find beauty in simplicity and to embrace the authenticity that defines our individual journeys.