‘The Rise of Rocky’ – from profound rejection to establishing a global brand and dressing the likes of Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, and Paris Hilton.
On February 18, the vibrant city of Melbourne will play host to an extraordinary fusion of fashion and film, as Australian designer Rochelle Gregory unveils “The Rise of Rocky” during the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival. Through her innovative label, Rocky Rafaela, Gregory is set to present a ground-breaking mini-film and runway experience that shares her authentic journey and seeks to inspire others to embrace their true selves.
With a heartfelt mission, Rochelle states, “I’ll be presenting The Rise of Rocky – an independent mini-film and runway experience that tells my true story. My intention with this project is to place it in front of women and men who may be struggling to believe in themselves, follow their dreams, or feel like they truly belong.” This event promises to resonate deeply with anyone who has ever felt lost or out of place.
The experience will commence with a visually stunning short film directed by the acclaimed ARIA Award-winning filmmaker Nick Kozakis. This cinematic piece bravely delves into the raw emotions of isolation, self-doubt, and the desperate yearning for connection—feelings that many experience but few openly confront. As the film unfolds, it portrays the tumultuous journey of a young girl grappling with her identity and battling the shadows of mental health challenges, trauma, and addiction.
Transitioning from this poignant narrative to a live runway spectacle, “The Rise of Rocky” symbolises transformation and resilience. It tells the story of a girl who faced profound rejection and despair but, against all odds, chose to rise. Gregory’s path from despair to triumph is nothing short of remarkable; within just two years of embracing her passion for fashion, she established a global brand that has dressed some of the biggest names in the industry—Ruby Rose, Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, Dua Lipa, and Paris Hilton, to name a few. Her designs have even become the focal point of major international campaigns, including Maybelline New York advertisements.
However, at the heart of “The Rise of Rocky” lies a powerful message about mental health. Gregory aims to create an uplifting and validating atmosphere that connects with attendees on a profound level. The event is not just about showcasing fashion; it’s about empowering individuals who feel unseen and underestimated. It’s a celebration of resilience, demonstrating that pain can be transformed into purpose, and that rebuilding a meaningful life is possible, no matter the obstacles one faces.
Rochelle Gregory’s “The Rise of Rocky” is set to be a transformative experience that will leave participants inspired, uplifted, and ready to embrace their own journeys, whatever they may hold.
For more information and tickets please visit https://melbournefashionfestival.com.au/2026-programme/a-rocky-road-to-success
