Pinkorange Meets Dima Simakov
Pinkorange meets Dima, a 28 year old content creator and the head of the Zara’s Men’s department in The Netherlands. Originally from a small town in Russia he moved to the Center of Amsterdam 2 years ago to keep pursuing his career in Zara.
What led you to work in fashion?
I started my career at Zara as a sales assistant at 18, and I just kept growing to the Head of the Men's Department in the Netherlands. I’ve always really liked fashion and merchandising, when I’m creating visual stories with textures, colours, and combinations I enjoy myself the most. I’m a visual person so being able to do this as work makes me very happy.
What inspires you?
People, the way they dress, how they carry themselves, their stories. I find beauty everywhere and love capturing it.
Nature is a huge inspiration. When I connect to nature, especially back in Russia, it’s like a reset. Only when your mind is empty, you can create and only when it’s silent you can empty your mind and be your true self.
Yes, and I appreciate every step. I even keep old photos that I might not like anymore because they’re still part of who I am. My past experiences, and the people who supported me, have helped me grow. Now, I try to be that supportive person for others.
Do you see yourself somewhere specific in the future?
I think I’d like to be a creative director one day, but I’m not set on it. I believe that as long as you’re happy and not feeling like anything is missing, you’re on the right path. Life is more fulfilling when you’re present in the moment and enjoying it.
As a creative, are there specific places that help you reconnect?
Yes, especially places with nature. Living in the centre of Amsterdam, I miss Russia’s unique nature and birch trees. They have birch trees on the rooftop of Depot Boijmans van Beunigen in Rotterdam, and being surrounded by them made me feel at home . It’s important to reconnect with nature and go back to your roots. Only then you can connect to yourself.
