Coco Rocha, a Toronto-born model of Irish and Ukrainian heritage, was dubbed the “Queen of Posing” by Tyra Banks. Known for her elfin features, athletic figure, and captivating shots unlike those of other models, Coco had little familiarity with the fashion world until her teenage years. One serendipitous encounter changed her life forever, making Rocha one of the most renowned figures in the fashion industry today. Read more on torontonka.
Coco’s Modeling Career and Advocacy Against EDs
Coco Rocha began her modeling career in 2004 when she signed a contract with the New York agency Supreme after being discovered by Charles Stewart at an Irish dance competition in Canada. Two years later, Rocha worked with fashion photographer Steven Meisel, who invited her to do a photoshoot alongside Gemma Ward and Amanda Moore. The editorial propelled her career, landing Coco on the February 2006 cover of Vogue Italia.
In 2016, Rocha became the owner, model, and brand director of Nomad Mgmt, a global model management company. She also launched the Coco Rocha Model Camp, a multi-day workshop for female models and photographers, with her husband James Conran as creative director and co-owner of Nomad Mgmt.
Rocha rose to prominence after signing a long-term contract with the handbag brand Longchamp, which led to numerous projects. Beyond Longchamp, she worked with Zac Posen, Banana Republic, L’Oréal, Sass & Bide, Massimo Dutti, and Diesel. She also walked the runway for John Galliano and Miu Miu.
Coco’s editorial portfolio is extensive, including covers for Vogue Italia and features in American Vogue. She has graced the covers of major international publications like Vogue Thailand, Elle Korea, Elle Brazil, and Harper’s Bazaar Singapore.
In 2013, her personal brand earned recognition on the show The Face, where she joined tennis pro Karolína Kurková and Naomi Campbell as judges. Her influence extends beyond modeling, having collaborated with designers like Karl Lagerfeld for Fendi and Chanel.
In 2012, Rocha became the first high-fashion model to surpass one million followers on Google+, underscoring her significant digital presence and impact.
Coco actively speaks out about eating disorders (EDs) in the fashion industry, voicing her concerns in public discussions with figures like Anderson Cooper. She has criticized the young age at which many models begin their careers and the industry’s impact on their health and well-being.
Designing Unique Jewelry Pieces
The talented Toronto supermodel collaborated with the online boutique BaubleBar to create a cosmic-themed jewelry line. The collection, a breath of fresh air in high fashion, features chainmail bibs, unconventional necklaces, and winged ear cuffs. True to Coco’s reputation, the pieces are accessible, priced between $24 and $120. A standout favorite is the galactic drop earrings, adorned with gemstones and priced at $40—perfect for elevating any outfit on a budget.
Why Is Coco Rocha So Beloved?
Coco Rocha has appeared in dozens of campaigns for brands like Hermès, Chanel, and Dior. She could easily teach a masterclass on building a brand through social media, as she maintains an active presence on Instagram and 12 other platforms. Her blog often features images with media personalities like Diane von Fürstenberg and Mick Jagger.
A notable aspect of Coco’s career is her unwavering adherence to her values as a devout Jehovah’s Witness. Her contracts explicitly prohibit her from posing nude, with cigarettes, or participating in campaigns with overtly sexual, political, or religious themes. However, at just 15 years old, she was once pressured into a semi-nude shoot.
In October 2013, following New York Fashion Week, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a bill protecting under-18 models. This legislation includes psychological and financial support and ensures models have access to tutors if they miss school and restrictions on overtime work. The bill also mandates chaperones for models under 16 attending shoots or castings. This was a significant victory for the Model Alliance, an advocacy group, and for Coco, who passionately supported the initiative.
Acting Career
Coco Rocha began her acting career with a documentary about Vogue in 2009. That same year, she appeared as a guest judge on Project Runway Canada. Contestants were tasked with designing a dress for her to wear.
Rocha later hosted the white carpet at the MTV Video Music Awards. In October 2011, she served as a judge on America’s Next Top Model, where Tyra Banks crowned her the “Queen of Posing.”
In 2010, Coco and fellow model Behati Prinsloo appeared in the short documentary Letters to Haiti, directed by her husband James Conran. The film documented their delivery of aid to Haiti following the 2010 earthquake. It premiered in Toronto in October 2011 and later in New York.
In 2013, Coco joined Naomi Campbell and Karolína Kurková as a coach and judge for the first season of The Face. Although she didn’t return for the second season, she appeared in the 14th season of Project Runway as a guest judge, where designers drew inspiration from the Broadway production Finding Neverland. In 2022, during the 12th episode of Project Runway’s 19th season, designers crafted an evening gown for Coco, and she also served as a judge. That same year, Coco appeared in the 7th episode of Germany’s Next Top Model’s 17th season.
Coco’s Personal Life
Coco Rocha has been married to James Conran since 2010, and together they have built a beautiful family. The couple has three children: daughters Ioni and Iley, and son Iver. Balancing her public career with family life, Coco continues to inspire many both within and beyond the fashion industry.