Emma La Rocca

Emma La Rocca is the designer and maker behind zero waste swimwear brand Emroce. Working from her Papamoa studio, she designs, researches, pattern-makes, cuts, and sews each garment, often alongside an intern. The studio environment is collaborative and energetic, with days spent sewing while listening to inspiring podcasts or upbeat techno. Although she leads the creative process, Emma views the work as a collective effort. Support from interns, customers, sustainable fabric suppliers, and the wider community all contribute to bringing each piece to life.

Emma’s designs aim to inspire positive change in response to the environmental and social impacts of modern production and consumption. Her swimwear is created to stay secure in the surf, encouraging women to feel confident, adventurous, and connected to the water while fostering greater respect for rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Sustainability sits at the core of Emma’s process. She focuses on thoughtful pattern making and zero-waste lay plans, while continually researching innovative, environmentally responsible fabrics. Her swimwear concept was first developed in Italy and is now produced in New Zealand using high-quality recycled Italian fabrics. Each design is refined to its essential elements, prioritizing function, durability, and a precise fit. Emma believes consumers hold real power: every purchase supports the values and companies people want to see thrive in the world.