Serenity w/ Dilan Çiçek Deniz
Self-confidence, bitterness, a universe of expectations and meeting with yourself through this process… We are setting out on a journey with Dilan Çiçek Deniz about inner depth and the sincerity it brings. Without hiding behind definitions and labels, we are wandering around thoughts as we are, setting our course without dwelling too long on any single moment. We find ourselves in a journey. Not searching for any answers, but solely for pursuing the right questions.
The path is a knot, that’s a fact. The solution is not singular, it has never been. Dilan is always on the flow, like water, and at the moments when she stumbles, she takes refuge in the sea which she considers “A sacred place” in her life. Within this framework, Dilan stands before us as the Clear Women Brand Ambassador, inspired by the same force. She is accompanied by “Hyaluron Nem Terapisi Serisi” that is inspired by the same power of water. She paints pictures with her words, and it is up to us to fill in the gaps. Is this an invitation to reach deeper?
Let’s get back to the beginning of everything; what would you tell the former Dilan, who aspired to be an actor, as the Dilan of today?
I’m having a hard time answering even the first question. First of all, it’s more important to know what Dilan, who once dreamed of acting, thinks about the current Dilan, rather than what I would like to say. I always try to keep the question, “If you met your childhood self, would she like you?” in the back of my mind. As for what I would like to tell her, I would probably apologize. I could have treated myself better.
Lately you’ve been operating in high tempo, transforming all the experience that comes from acting into production in various media. Facing the camera, getting behind it, theater… What’s coming next?
Amadeus, a joint production of Çolpan İlhan-Sadri Alışık Theater and PIU Entertainment, is going on stage with its 6th season. And this will be my 3rd season in Amadeus with Selçuk Yöntem and Tansu Biçer. We’ll be going on tour soon, I really missed being on stage. Let the other projects remain a mystery. On the other hand, in addition to the projects, I had the amazing experience of working on two short films that I produced and took place behind the camera, feeling the thrill of where it actually happens. They will meet the audiences soon. Both being on stage and behind the scenes make me feel good.
Dilan wears a dress by Tomford – Beymen
How do you define self-confidence?
Having self-confidence means knowing your own worth, limits and skills. For me, it’s not only about the visual appearance but also an inner stance. People utter this word very casually and perceive it as a superficial concept but it actually is a very powerful statement. It enables you to realize our potential, cope with challenges, and most importantly, know ourselves. It is not just on the surface but also deeply rooted.
Trusting ourselves, our essence, is a challenging yet rewarding process.
What is the first and utmost step for you to look better, more beautiful and keep your self-confidence high?
I guess it’s being happy, or rather trying to be happy. Unhappiness is often our brain’s attempt to pull us into a safe zone; an easy choice that doesn’t require energy consumption. But reaching true happiness requires effort and struggle. When you make this effort, other beautiful things follow. Other than that, surrounding yourself with beautiful souls, being with people who are good for you… Those who understand you, inspire you, listen to you and support you…
Dilan wears rhinestone bra top by Farda, a denim by Loewe – Beymen and her shoes are Miu Miu
What does hair that makes you feel good mean to you?
The days when I don’t need to put any effort into styling, like when I look in the mirror and I like my hair in all its naturalness; those are my favorite days. My good hair days.
Your hair care routine?
I would be lying if I said the way my hair looks doesn’t affect how I feel, so it’s really important to me that it looks good with full volume. I figure out the needs of my hair and plan my routine accordingly.
I recently got acquainted with Clear’s new line of Hyaluron Moisture Therapy. Thanks to its hyaluronic acid content, it provides my hair with the moisture it needs and makes it look more voluminous. Offering both shampoo and serum, the product line does not weigh down my hair due to its gentle structure.
Dilan weas a bodysuit and a triangle bra by Intimissimi, a skirt by Christopher Esber – V2K Designers and her shoes are Jacquemus – Beymen
Summer, sea, and a little bit of sun… What feelings do those three concepts awaken in you when they come together?
Summer reminds me of freedom and the moments when it’s enough just “being” in the flow… I savor the joy of being, in the season of freedom.
It is one of the four elements, but most of the time its reflection within us is much more than that. What does water mean to you? Can you elaborate on your relationship with water?
For me, the sea is a sacred place, it purifies my soul and revives my being. The endless shades of water, from light aquamarine to deep emerald green… Every time I dive, I feel like I’m experiencing a spiritual cleansing.
Do you believe in mythology and legends of mermaids?
I want to believe. The myths contain our archaic beliefs and stories inside them, thus believing in them means believing in ourselves and our past in a way. I have always been fascinated by how people push the boundaries of their imagination.
Everything is possible; dream another dream for yourself!
To live in a world where no living being is harmed…
Dilan wears a dress by Farda and her shoes are Nensi Dojaka – Beymen
Dilan wears a bodysuit by Anais Margaux, a skirt by Ceren Ocak and her shoes are Miu Miu
Talent Dilan Çiçek Deniz
Creative Direction and Words by Duygu Bengi
Fashiıon Editor Murat Şentürk
Photographed by Burcu Karademir
Hair by Mustafa Akgül
Hair Team Batuhan Sancar, Enes Sakızcı, Mehmet İyi
Make Up by Gamze Tekin Alp
Set Design Yeşim Yeşilçimen
Creative Production by BI Creative
Creative Team Belgin Demirhan, Gamze Okutucu Birce Naz Köş, Şevval Küçüktır, Tunga Yankı Tan
Gaffer Ömer Rauf Aksoy
Gaffer Assistant Furkan Irmak
Make Up Assistant Begüm Tank
Key Grip Korhan Keskin
Key GripAssistants Aydın Çakır, Emre Ekinci, Enes Ekinci
Best Boy Taner Altundaş
Set Design Assistant Yusuf Şengönül
Lighting Assistants Eren Can Evcil, Okan Güney, Taylan Kaya