The Dutch model and businesswoman on how to wind down, guilty pleasures and happiness.
Each week we speak to thought leaders, wellness warriors, business pioneers and entrepreneurs from around the world to find out what motivates them, how they got to where they are and what they would have done differently given the chance.
This week we’re speaking to Dutch model and businesswoman Roosmarijn de Kok. Roos - pronounced Rose - fell into the spotlight after being spotted by an experienced model at a birthday party and persuaded to send photos into Wilhelmina Models. Next thing she knew she was being asked to fly to New York and was formerly signed to the agency in early 2013.
Born in Amerongen, a tiny village in Holland’s countryside, Roosmarijn’s career has gone from strength to strength and at the age of 25 she has already fronted campaigns for the likes of Balmain, Victoria’s Secret, H&M, Tom Ford and Giuseppe Zanotti. She has also walked for Oscar de la Renta and Ralph Lauren among others.
In 2016 Roosmarijn was described by fashion magazine Vogue as one the hottest models to watch. In 2018, she went on to launch her own company - Roos Unlimited - with a vision to support brand collaboration and give back to the fashion industry. Roos considers herself a model and an investor in equal measure, and lives in New York City with her pup, Harley.
We caught up with the Daily Front Row’s ‘model du moment’ to chat about true happiness, guilty pleasures and winding down at the end of a long day.
1. When did you last feel true happiness?
This morning waking up with the sun shining, looking at the ocean and having my puppy Harley next to me. I’m usually happiest appreciating the small things in life.
2. Has there been a moment in your life when you realised you needed to make a change?
Yes many times, mostly when surrounded by the wrong people. You truly are a product of your environment and once you realize that, it’s sometimes necessary to make a change in the people you surround yourself with.
3. When was the last time you did something that truly challenged you?
I try to do something everyday to challenge myself. That could mean a tough workout or setting a specific goal for myself. I guess I'm lucky to have work that pushes me to get out of my comfort zone by always doing new things; I speed a lot of time traveling to new places and meeting new people.
4. What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
Every day is a gift! But having someone’s undivided time and attention would be the best one I've ever received.
5. What would be the one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self?
It will all work out.
6. What difference has LYMA made to your life?
The LYMA supplement has given me more energy while making me feel more calm and grounded at the same time.
7. How do you cope with the low moments in your life?
I try to change my perspective and take a moment to ask myself what I’m grateful for. I will also try to get a good workout in, see some friends, plan fun things to look forward to and enjoy my favorite comfort foods.
8. What’s your guilty pleasure?
Lately it’s been a good slice of pizza. I order pizza at least once a week.
9. How do you wind down at the end of a long day?
I like to do a little yoga flow followed by watching a movie or reading a book, order some food and then just relax on the couch! Just another example of how the small things truly make me the most happy.
