(Continued) national collection in front of the Mexican fashion industry in 1987 that would go on to win him numerous awards and critical acclaim. “That first fashion show was one of the first recognitions I received in the world of fashion.” Rocha recalls. “They loved everything! I was awarded the prize for the best designer in Mexico and also the Blanc de Blancs award by Pedro Domecq.” (the famous Mexican distillery company that owns brands such as Kahlúa and Sauza tequilia) At the ripe young age of 18, the naturally talented prodigy had made it to the top of one of the most exclusive industries in the world.
Fast forward 3 decades later, the magic of his designs are still just as bold, luxurious, and captivating to the eye as ever. In a word, they are timeless. His uncanny ability to mix vibrant colors with perfectly contrasting textures is astounding. “The influence of combining many textures with different colors comes from my father I think.” He explains. “He liked everything to be very dimensional. That is why I mix a lot of colors, textures, and fabrics. Because it gives dimension to the garment so it never looks flat or dull. Natural and crude fibers provide contrast that brings the fabric and colors to life. Even during the 90’s when there was no color in fashion, I still did not stop using them. I have always been a rebel that way. Now, two years from now, the colors always come back around. People always look better dressed in colors.”
More recently, Rocha has taken a bit of a hiatus from the fashion world to focus on some of his other creative passions… namely, directing and producing Broadway plays, and singing. Along with his partner Michael Gibney, Rocha has launched a company called “Nu Name Productions” that produces full-scale stage productions on the bustling and tourist rich Puerto Vallarta entertainment circuit. He has produced and directed such Broadway classics as Neil Simon’s “Plaza Suite”, (Continued pg 43)
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