It all started with a vision…
Not from a corporate boardroom, but from one man’s life-changing adventures, and a deep connection to vibrant cultures and artisanal craftmanship. This is the story of Monsoon, where the world of fashion meets the art of storytelling.
How It All Started
In the early 1970s, our founder, Peter Simon, embarked on a journey that would forever shape the Monsoon brand. His story begins on a hippy commune in the sun-drenched hills of Ibiza, where he discovered his love for vibrant, colourful clothing. But it wasn’t just the colours that captivated him – it was the craftsmanship, the soul, and the stories woven into every hand-made garment.
From Ibiza, Peter set off on a remarkable overland trip eastward, passing through Afghanistan, India, and other faraway places. These travels opened his eyes to the extraordinary beauty of hand-crafted textiles, where clothes were more than just fabric – they were art. And he wanted to bring that artistry back to the fashion streets of London.
Returning to the UK with a head full of inspiration and a heart full of passion, Peter set up shop on a humble market stall at Portobello Road. His mission? To introduce the bohemian, free-spirited essence of handmade clothing to a world that needed a little more colour and character. And thus, Monsoon was born.
Working with Artisans: Crafting the Monsoon Look
From its earliest days, Monsoon has been more than just a fashion brand. It’s a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and the skills of artisans from around the world. Since 1973, we’ve partnered with craftspeople and homeworkers to bring the Monsoon aesthetic to life. We’re known for our intricate embroidery, vibrant hand-block prints, and artisanal crochet details that make every piece feel special and unique.
These early collections were not mass-produced; they were born in Indian villages, where craftsmanship passed down through generations was at the heart of every creation. Each stitch, each print was a reflection of the skill and care that went into every garment. This tradition has remained at the core of Monsoon’s identity ever since.
Our commitment to handcraftsmanship is more than just about aesthetics; it’s about sustaining skills, supporting livelihoods, and preserving cultural traditions. It’s why, to this day, we continue to collaborate with artisans to ensure that every Monsoon piece carries a story with it – a story of heritage, creativity, and passion.
Monsoon Today: Fashion with a Heart
As Monsoon has grown from its humble beginnings on Portobello Road to becoming a beloved international brand, our values have stayed the same. We continue to draw inspiration from around the world, bringing timeless bohemian style to our collections. But more than that, we remain committed to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and keeping the spirit of handcraft alive.
So, the next time you browse through a Monsoon collection, remember – you’re not just buying a piece of clothing. You’re buying a story. One that started on a journey through faraway lands and continues to unfold with every stitch, every print, and every detail.
Monsoon is fashion with heart, heritage, and a while lot of soul. Welcome to the story of Monsoon. Where will it take you next?