Cheay Rochelle

Bio

Ever since I can remember, I have always been the creative type, and for some reason, clothes were always a form of art to me. Being that art was one of my many talents that I loved; I always found ways to express my artsy taste in style and incorporated it into my clothing. One day my older sister told me, after seeing me cutting my jeans and turning them into a dress, that I should really look into fashion design school, so I guess that’s when it all began.

As an upcoming fashion designer in New York, I feel a little different compared to people in my community and especially in my family. Everyone mainly is looking into careers such as law, medicine, or teaching. For me, it can be a little challenging at times because my parents think it would be best to choose a career that can financially support me other than being a “designer.” Coming from a family that believes in a traditional lifestyle is one of my major struggles, but I do not let it affect me. I still continue to work on my collections, take part in fashion shows, sell clothing online and follow my dreams. I find that going to Hofstra University and majoring in Marketing has really helped me grow as business person and a designer as well. I strive to excel, to learn new things and hope to become one of the Best Designers in History.

Being a designer in New York has its good and bad sides. It can be very competitive at times, but I find that being different and following your own vision can set you apart from others.