It’s not every day that we encounter a creative force who can marry impeccable design with the strength of femininity in the way Jonathan Simkhai does. As his celebrated brand, SIMKHAI, finds its way to Singapore, SocietyA is thrilled to bring you closer to this visionary’s new collection for Pre-Fall 2023. Continue reading as we explore his Pre-Fall 2023 Collection in conversation with the renowned designer himself.
About Jonathan Simkhai, The Designer
Jonathan Simkhai honed his technical skills at Parsons School of Design and the Fashion Institute of Technology before launching his first womenswear line in New York City. An early inductee to the CFDA Incubator program, he quickly developed an eye for craft and quality. Today he leads the brand’s creative studio, drawing inspiration from his travels and the cities he and his husband call home.
A Conversation With Jonathan Simkhai
SocietyA: Your brand, SIMKHAI, is now officially available in Singapore! How would you introduce yourself to the women who are now experiencing you and your brand for the first time?
Jonathan Simkhai: I am so excited to introduce the collection to the women of Singapore. A huge source of my inspiration is the women who shop the brand and I can’t wait to see how they style and make it their own. We design for the elevated everyday with innovative techniques and timeless craftsmanship.
SA: What can you tell us about your Pre-Fall 2023 Collection?
JS: For PreFall 23 there is an emphasis on crafting wardrobing – the idea of wardrobe staples that can be worn seasonless and all year round. The items are intended to elevate one’s closet with ease and simplicity.
SA: Your designs are celebrated for their intricate detailing and innovative materials. Are there any new or unique elements you’ve incorporated into the Pre-Fall 2023 Collection?
JS: Throughout the collection there is a theme of seemingly understated pieces that are intended to dazzle the eye with their textures when up close with unexpected elements. For example, there is a beautifully tailored structured crepe blazer combined with sheer pleats. There is also an oversized blazer dress that is synched with a crystal carabiner trim on the closure. It’s this idea of intentional juxtaposition with fluidity in silhouette contrasted, with the boldness of tailoring
SA: You’re able to bring together luxurious fabrics and controlled silhouettes to achieve an aesthetic that emulates “feminine strength”. Can you share more about how this philosophy of feminine strength informs your design process?
JS: My favourite part of the business is getting in the fitting rooms with women, seeing what parts of their body they like to highlight vs what they want to cover up. It really helps me with research for future collections and inspires me. There is so much strength in women feeling confident in what they’re wearing and I always design with that in mind.
SA: At SocietyA, we seek to empower women with the tools they need to curate the lifestyle they want to lead. How would you describe the feeling that the #SocietyAWoman would have when she dons a piece from your new collection?
JS: I hope she feels inspired, beautiful but most importantly, confident.
SA: You’ve dressed icons since the inception of your namesake label in 2015, from Michelle Obama and Lady Gaga to Julia Fox and so many others. They each exude the feminine strength energy your label radiates. Who would you say personifies that energy today?
JS: I really appreciate and admire the work of VP Kamala Harris. She’s doing such beautiful things in the advocacy space for working families and women’s rights.
SA: Do you have any words for the #SocietyAWoman as she takes her first glimpse at the Pre-Fall 2023 Collection?
JS: I hope she loves the collection as much as I do and feels elevated, inspired and confident.
Jonathan Simkhai’s definition of feminine strength is a testament to the unique vision behind SIMKHAI. As the brand makes its Singapore debut, we believe that the women who wear these designs will experience the transformative power of fashion that not only amplifies their style but also instils confidence. Here at SocietyA, we share this vision of empowering women, and are excited to see how SIMKHAI will further inspire our vibrant and diverse community.
Explore SIMKHAI’s Pre-Fall 2023 Collection
