Coco Rocha Interview

I never thought I’d have a post with this title, but apparently wishes do come true. Appearing in everything A to Z fashion and back again, Coco Rocha has won over everyone’s heart (and their dog) since her first jig down the catwalk for Jean Paul Gaultier. It makes me very proud to see such incredible representation of Canadians in the cutthroat world of fashion. Coco’s role call is so long don’t bother holding your breath, because you’ll soon faint. Besides appearing in the likes of Vogue, Dazed & Confused, Dansk, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, i-D, Lanvin, Numéro, Harper’s Bazaar, and W, she’s been heavily involved with Modelinia, had a Rootstein mannequin immortilization, and doesn’t seem to be slowing down with the recent announcement of her very own clothing line. She’s appeared as a nun, a biker, a man, a mime, a single mom, and has worn everything under the sun including a rip-off Madonna cone bra. If you look up versatile in the dictionary, you’ll probably find Coco’s name embossed in gold.

TT: Can you please fill this out?
Name: Coco Rocha
Age: 21
Occupation: Model, dancer, occasional blogger and aspiring designer
Currently Resides: New York, NY
Favourite Song: Right now? You’re in my heart / Rod Stewart

TT: In one interview you did with Fashion File, you said: “I guess it hasn’t hit me, it will probably will never hit me, about I’ve actually maybe made it as a model”. So has it hit you yet?
CR: I suppose its become a way of life now, yes, but its still odd for me when I’m recognized! The other day a complete stranger ran up to me saying “Coco, Coco, can I have a hug?!”. I obliged, awkwardly, and came home to find an email on facebook from her. That kind of thing I’ll never be completely used too.

TT: If there is one thing (among many) that you’re known for, it’s probably you’re versatility, with many people you’ve worked with calling you a chameleon. Is this the secret to what is keeping you in demand in the industry?
CR: Perhaps. I don’t know that there is a secret, per se. As with any job, you take it seriously, you work hard, try not to ruffle too many feathers. I’m not one to party so I show up to work on time and ready to go. This is pretty much standard practice in any profession though I guess. I also respect the talent in this industry. This summer I got to spend some time observing at Vogue and I learned so much about how hard everyone works to make that happen. Its really quite amazing how it all comes together.

TT: I haven’t come across one bad thing about you. You seem so easy to work with, and so grateful for everything. What do you think it takes to make everybody so happy on set?
CR: Good (healthy) food, a little music and some laughs can go a long way to lighten the mood on set.

TT: You blog, facebook, twitter, and manage to keep your cool. How do you do it?
CR: Oh, it’s not too hard. On my blog I just write what about what I’m up to and if people enjoy reading it, then that’s lovely. Facebook I use less, I’ll throw the odd picture up there every now and then or see what others are commenting. Twitter is new to me but I’m quite excited about its possibilities. I have it on my phone so its easy to use when I’m sitting having my hair and makeup done.

TT: Being Canadian, I can’t help but be proud that someone has burst out of the igloo and become something better than the best dog sled team. What do you like about Canada that you haven’t yet found anywhere else?
CR: Well it WAS Tim Horton’s but now I hear they have one in NY! Other than that, I miss my family and childhood friends — you can’t find that in Manhattan.

TT: Uh oh! There is a fire and you can only save one thing from your apartment. What would it be?
CR: I have a box of keep sakes — notes people have given me, little things that are precious to my heart — I’d be so sad to see those memories go. Oh, and Peekaboo, of course!!!

TT: Do you have a planned ending to your career in modeling? Do you feel threatened by all the new young girls?
CR: No, not at all!! There’s both room and a need in this industry for each successive generation. Some of the new girls are very sweet and I hope to be a good example to them. I was fortunate to have great examples in the generation above me and many of them are still doing amazingly well in this business. I’m only 21, I hoping to stick around for a little while still!!

TT: Last one, I promise. Tell us something you always keep in mind.
CR: Stay true to yourself. Stick by your values, your morals, and don’t let the world bring you down.

A true Coco quote, folks. And well-versed advice to be had, for sure. Thank you, Coco Rocha, for being so down-to-earth, beautiful, and Canadian! See more of Coco’s editorials here. Tweet