From his father’s tire shop in Chania to the ceremonial precision of the Greek Presidential Guard in Athens, Dimitris Kokonakis’ path to the runway was anything but expected.

Raised in a village on the island of Crete, his life once revolved around discipline, routine, and simplicity- far removed from the fast-paced world of fashion. For Dimitris, it was not aspiration that led him here, but timing. A life-changing scouting moment shifted everything, setting him on a path he hadn’t planned, but instinctively chose to follow.

Today, with two appearances on the Dolce & Gabbana runway already behind him and a steadily rising career, it’s clear that Kokonakis’ achievements stem from his character- grounded, humble, and quietly driven. Speaking with IN+SIGHTS GREECE, he reflects on the unexpected start of his journey, the mindset that keeps him focused as his career continues to evolve, and what lies ahead.

You grew up in Chania, working in your father’s tire shop, before moving to Athens to serve as an Evzone. Looking back, was there a moment during that time that shifted something in you, or did modelling come entirely by chance?

I grew up in Chania, in a village. I was very into sports, and as I got older, I started working at my father’s tire shop. My life was simple- training, work, routine. Fashion wasn’t part of my world at all.

One of the most important periods in my life was when I moved to Athens and served in the Presidential Guard as an Evzone. It’s something I’m really proud of. That experience gave me discipline, structure, and helped me understand myself on a deeper level.

Modelling came later, completely unexpectedly. I got scouted at a time when I wasn’t even thinking about it. I didn’t plan this path, but I chose to follow it.

Athens is a city of contrasts- intense, layered, and constantly moving. How has living there shaped you, both personally and as a model? Did you feel any sense of pressure or competition early on?

Athens is a chaotic city, but in a good way. It has a lot of energy, a strong rhythm, and there’s always something happening. What really helped me here were the people. Being in Athens gave me access to the right environment and the right connections within the industry.

That made a big difference for me, especially in the beginning. As a model, it helped me grow and understand how things work. The real competition is abroad; Athens is more about building yourself and finding your direction.

Your first major runway moment came in July 2022 with Dolce & Gabbana. What was your immediate reaction when you realised you would be walking for one of fashion’s most recognised houses?

When I found out I was walking for Dolce & Gabbana, what I felt most was a sense of relief. It felt like something I had been working towards finally became real. Like all the effort, the patience, everything- it connected at that moment. I didn’t get carried away. I just saw it as a turning point and told myself to stay focused and make the most of it.

Returning to the Dolce & Gabbana runway in January 2026 must have felt different. Did it come with a sense of confirmation, or did it mark a new chapter for you?

Going back to Dolce & Gabbana in 2026 felt different, in a good way. The first time, everything was new and a bit overwhelming. This time, I felt more calm, more confident, and more aware of myself. I could actually enjoy the moment more and understand what it means to be there. It felt like a natural progression, not just a repeat.

Backstage before a show is often intense and fast-moving. What kind of mindset do you bring into that moment, and how do you prepare yourself?

For me, preparation doesn’t start backstage, it’s something constant. The way I train, the way I live, how I take care of my body and my mindset… I’m always in that process.

So before a show, I don’t feel like I need to switch into something different. I’m already there. Backstage, I just stay calm, focus on my breathing, and stay present in the moment.

Has modelling changed you in any way, or has it simply revealed more of who you already are?

I think this career revealed who I already was more than it changed me. It puts you in situations where you have to stand on your own, and you see how you handle things-pressure, responsibility, expectations. It made me more aware and more focused, but at the core, I’m still the same person.

As someone now based in Athens, how do you see the city’s dining scene today?

Athens has really evolved over the last few years. There are so many good restaurants and places to go out- it’s impressive how much the city has grown. You can find everything, depending on your mood, from something very simple to something more refined.

For our readers planning a trip to Greece this summer, where in Chania would you suggest they go to experience it more authentically?

Chania is home for me. It’s where I grew up, where my family is- it’s a place I’m always connected to. If someone visits, I’d say start with the Old Town and just walk around without a plan. That’s the best way to experience it.

Of course, Balos and Falassarna are beautiful and worth seeing, but I’d also suggest exploring quieter beaches and small villages around the area. That’s where you really feel the authenticity of the place.

And if anything happens to your tires while you’re there… you know where to find us! 

Is there a particular runway or fashion house you hope to walk for one day?

There are many incredible shows, but I’m always drawn to houses that have a strong identity and a clear sense of storytelling. For me, it’s not just about the runway- it’s about the feeling behind it, the people, and the vision that brings everything together.

As your career continues to evolve, how do you see the future unfolding? Do you feel your ambitions lie solely in modelling, or are you open to opportunities beyond the runway?

Right now, I’m focused on modelling and on improving step by step. I try not to rush anything or think too far ahead. I stay consistent, I work, and I stay open to opportunities. For me, it’s about progress- doing things the right way and seeing how far I can go.

Images Courtesy of Dimitris Kokonakis