Pinterest’s Ayumi Nakajima On Her Favourite Trends, Inspirations And Local Creatives
Take it from someone who knows what’s cool.
By Nicole Ng - published
People dream of living a Pinterest-worthy life, but Ayumi Nakajima is living it. As Pinterest’s senior director of content partnerships in Asia-Pacific (which involves monitoring audience behaviour and trends on the platform), keeping up with what’s buzzy has become more than her job—it’s part of her daily routine.
When she’s off-duty, you’d catch Nakajima chilling with her family at her favourite beach bar, wearing an experimental scent combination, and exploring Mizuma Gallery solo.
Below, the things you should know of and do right now, according to someone in-the-know.
Related article: The Biggest Fashion Trends For 2026, According To Pinterest
Ayumi Nakajima trying out a look inspired by Wilderkind, a Pinterest Predicts trend.
What’s something on your Pinterest feed that has recently inspired you?
Lately, I’ve been inspired by makeup looks that feel cool-toned and slightly unexpected, from frost-inspired blues to more playful, expressive details. I’ve been enjoying experimenting with textures and small touches, leaning into yet another Pinterest Predicts trend, Wilderkind, with soft fawn-inspired freckles, and have been approaching makeup as a creative outlet to start my day.
What are some books you recommend?
Oddly enough, I find psychological thrillers a great way to decompress. Fredia McFadden books are page turners that help me zone out, and for deeper thinking, Malcom Gladwell and Adam Grant are my favourites. On the professional side, I often recommend Aliza Knox’s Don’t Quit Your Day Job as it’s reflective of my own career growth and also includes many examples from Asia.
Related article: We Asked BookTokers For Their Top Books To Read, And Here’s What They Recommended
Who’s a local creative you’ve been watching recently?
Ochre Home’s Geraldine Toh. I love her interior style and am always impressed by how she’s able to transform her space in an elegant way. I also curate a lot of greenery ideas on Pinterest, and I feel like her paintings and wall murals bring my aesthetic to life.
Related article: Discover The Ochre-Themed Home Of Artist And Interior Designer Geraldine Toh
What’s a local brand you love supporting?
I love Riau Candles! Especially their Christmas Tree scent, which we use year round. All proceeds go to charity and they are great for gifting. It’s surprising how much scent can elevate your mood.
Do you have a secret spot in Singapore you visit regularly?
Aloha Beach Bar.
We love cycling to Aloha Beach Bar on the weekends and go paddling or watch people sail! It feels less busy compared to the rest of East Coast Park, and we love playing with the dogs that come by as well.
What’s one way you implement creativity in your daily life?
I’ve been experimenting with scent, layering candles or perfumes to create different moods at home—a trend we’re also seeing in our recent Pinterest Predicts 2026. I like curating small visual moments as well, through setting the table or styling a shelf. These little rituals give me pleasure, help me slow down, stay present, and find inspiration in everyday life.
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