Coco Rocha has opened up about the inspiration she draws from renowned model Cindy Crawford, particularly in her role as a mother. Speaking at the CLD PR New York Fashion Week Kickoff Event 2026, held on September 11 at ModernHaus Hotel in New York City, the 38-year-old model and television host discussed her experiences as a parent to three children with her husband, James Conran.
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Rocha is the mother of Ioni, aged 11, Iley, 5, and Iver, whose interests she shared during the event. Reflecting on her children’s potential involvement in the modelling world, Rocha expressed her thoughts on the matter, stating, “I think they will play around with it. I would never say no.” She highlighted that her perspective on parenting has been shaped by successful figures in the industry, mentioning, “I’ve learned from some great, beautiful momagers and moms, one being Cindy Crawford.”
Crawford’s influence on Rocha is particularly notable due to her close relationship with her daughter, Kaia Gerber, who has made her mark in the modelling and acting spheres. Rocha admired how Crawford supported Gerber in her early career, ultimately allowing her daughter to shine independently. “I think of her and Kaia, and how she was so helpful at the beginning of her career and now Kaia is doing it all on her own. That is such a success story for a mum like myself,” Rocha remarked.
Despite the allure of following in their parents’ footsteps, Rocha acknowledged the challenges children face when embarking on similar career paths. She reflected, “It’s a little harder to do the same thing your parents do on your own unique path. Maybe that’s why they’re already like, ‘I already have my own thing. I want to do that.’” This understanding allows her to support her children’s ambitions while encouraging individuality.
Ioni, Rocha’s eldest daughter, appears to have found her passion in theatre. Rocha noted, “She’s like, ‘Give me Broadway.’ I’m like, ‘You have to actually work for it.’ She’s so excited to have found her niche.” This enthusiasm for performing arts seems to be a strong focus for Ioni, setting the stage for her developing interests.
Meanwhile, her son Iver is keen on education and is gearing up to start taking boxing lessons, while Iley has taken a keen interest in dance. Rocha’s nurturing approach allows her children to explore their unique interests while providing guidance as needed.
The New York Fashion Week Kickoff event, which showcased various brands and products, was presented by Burlington’s House of Burl. Rocha highlighted one of the brands featured, Pink Palm Puff, noting its popularity among children and tweens. “My daughter is obsessed with it. Every tween is obsessed with it. So you know when the tweens are obsessed with something, it’s probably going to do very well,” she remarked.
In the midst of her busy professional life, Rocha reflected on motherhood’s role in her overall wellbeing. “People say they have burnouts, sometimes because of work, sometimes because they’re parents and it’s full-on. My burnouts are work, and when I have those moments, my favourite thing is to immerse myself in being a mum more,” she shared, emphasising the healing power of family life.
As Rocha balances her career and motherhood, she continues to find guidance in influential figures like Crawford, while also setting her own path. Her insights reveal a deep appreciation for both her children’s individuality and the lessons learned from the modelling industry. As all eyes turn to New York for this year’s fashion events, Rocha’s insights about motherhood and ambition are a timely reminder of the strength required to navigate both professional and personal lives in today’s world.