Elle U.S.

Elle U.S. · Elle U.S. September 2026 Cover

For the September 2026 cover of Elle U.S., the publication delivers an exercise in editorial restraint, placing global icon Rihanna at the heart of a narrative defined by texture and presence. Photographed by the visionary duo Inez and Vinoodh, the portrait eschews the high-octane saturation common in modern magazine covers in favor of a cinematic, minimalist approach. By utilizing natural light and soft lighting techniques, the photographers capture the subject with a raw, intimate clarity that highlights the intricate detail of her ornamental tattoos and the structural elegance of her metallic headpiece. This commercial aesthetic is meticulously refined, with the styling by Jahleel Weaver grounding the image in a sophisticated, avant-garde sensibility that feels both timeless and urgent. Every element, from the neutral gray backdrop to the deliberate, expressive posture of the subject, is calibrated to command attention without the need for visual noise. The collaboration brings together the masterful creative guidance of Editor-in-Chief Nina Garcia alongside the precise artistry of hair stylist Jawara and makeup artist Hector Espinal to create a cover that feels less like a traditional media asset and more like a captured moment of stillness. In an industry often dominated by digital artifice, this September feature stands as a powerful reminder of how editorial photography can command the cultural conversation through sheer, unfiltered character.

Elle U.S. · Forever Posh

Elle U.S. · Elle U.S. May 2026 Cover

The Elle U.S. May 2026 cover story captures the quintessential intersection of high-fashion editorial portraiture and the unmistakable, brooding charisma of musician Billie Eilish. Photographed by Willy Vanderperre, this expansive portfolio channels a sharp, minimalist aesthetic that allows the subject to command the frame against stark, clean studio backgrounds. Vanderperre utilizes precise studio strobe lighting to navigate between high-key compositions that emphasize clean lines and dramatic low-key chiaroscuro setups that lean into a more cinematic, moody intensity. The styling, curated by Paul Sinclaire, expertly balances haute couture silhouettes—such as voluminous, ruffled gowns and structured double-breasted trench coats—with subcultural staples like embellished baseball caps and oversized graphic tees. This stylistic juxtaposition highlights a mature, modern evolution of Eilish's signature visual language. Complementing the photography, the beauty direction by Benjamin Mohapi and Emily Cheng keeps the focus on textured hair and natural, striking features, ensuring the visuals remain grounded despite the high-fashion grandeur. With an editorial direction overseen by Editor-in-Chief Nina Garcia, the project reinforces the magazine's commitment to sophisticated, stripped-back portraiture that avoids superfluous clutter. Every frame, from the high-contrast black-and-white full-body shots to the direct-gaze close-ups, emphasizes a refined, modern approach to the traditional magazine cover, proving that professional editorial minimalism remains the most powerful tool in contemporary fashion media.

Elle U.S. · Elle U.S. Summer 2026 Digital Cover

For the Elle U.S. Summer 2026 digital cover, the publication masterfully channels a vibrant, sun-drenched aesthetic that serves as a bold departure from traditional studio portraiture. The project leans into the synergy between high-fashion editorial sensibilities and a grounded, organic environment, centered on a striking performance by Karol G. Photographers Elliot & Erick Jimenez anchor the shoot with a crisp, high-contrast vision, capturing the talent against an electric mustard yellow backdrop that demands immediate visual attention. The styling, meticulously curated by Fashion Editor Nycole Sariol, juxtaposes a structured, white long-sleeved top with a voluminous, polka-dotted ruffled skirt, creating a silhouette that feels both architectural and playful. This commercial editorial look is elevated by the intricate set design from Natalie Fält, who transformed the studio floor into an immersive, textural landscape featuring moss and dried floral elements. By blending natural light techniques with deliberate studio artifice, the team has produced a cover that feels simultaneously curated and spontaneous. The inclusion of high-contrast white typography acts as a structural frame, reinforcing the magazine’s iconic brand identity while keeping the focus squarely on the energy of the subject. This collaboration is a testament to the power of deliberate, multi-layered visual storytelling within the modern digital media landscape, proving that even a controlled studio environment can pulse with a life of its own.

Elle U.S. · Karol G

For this striking feature in Elle U.S., photographers Elliot and Erick Jimenez craft a visual narrative that transcends the typical celebrity cover story. Centering on global superstar Karol G, the editorial portrait series masterfully balances high-fashion artifice with intimate, painterly warmth. Through a meticulous blend of techniques—ranging from studio strobe precision to the nostalgic, film-like quality of soft-focus analogue imagery—the project channels an ethereal, cinematic mood. Fashion editor and stylist Nycole Sariol curates a wardrobe defined by voluminous silhouettes, intricate ruching, and dramatic textures, while set designer Natalie Fält constructs immersive, earthy environments that oscillate between rustic moss-strewn landscapes and moody, low-key chiaroscuro interiors lit by flickering taper candles. The execution feels deeply intentional; whether capturing the surreal flutter of golden butterfly motifs or the tactile weight of velvet and ruffled gowns, the imagery leans into a sophisticated aesthetic that celebrates the intersection of music and editorial minimalism. With hair and beauty contributions from Bo S and manicured details by Stephanie Stone, every frame is anchored by a sense of movement and grace. This collection of portraits succeeds not only as a showcase of style but as an evocative exploration of identity, utilizing natural light to highlight the intricate embroidery, metallic accents, and personal tattoos that define Karol G’s multifaceted persona.

Elle U.S. · Found Objects

In the Found Objects series for Elle U.S., the boundary between luxury retail and fine art blurs through a series of meticulously crafted still life compositions. By positioning high-end handbags and footwear alongside idiosyncratic, sculptural elements—ranging from rustic artisan ceramics to organic, relief-style floral carvings—the project elevates accessories into the realm of the surreal. Photographer Sharon Radisch masterfully employs studio strobe lighting to navigate the complex dialogue between the polished, reflective surfaces of premium leather and metal against the matte, porous textures of clay and stone. The work leans heavily into editorial minimalism, utilizing clean, graduated grey backgrounds to ensure the focus remains anchored on the interplay of shape and shadow. Set designer Jill Nicholls plays a pivotal role here, creating bespoke, precarious arrangements that allow the products to transcend their functional origins. By balancing delicate chains and structured silhouettes atop bird sculptures or floral-crowned vessels, the imagery creates a sense of tension and aesthetic curiosity. Through this sophisticated lens, the Found Objects series acts as a masterclass in modern fashion photography, favoring a controlled, artful environment that rewards the viewer with rich, tactile detail and a refined, monochromatic color palette, ultimately proving that even the most grounded products can occupy a space of pure creative expression.

Elle U.S. · Charlize Theron Is Still Pushing Her ...

In this evocative feature for Elle U.S., actor Charlize Theron takes center stage in an editorial portrait series that transcends standard celebrity profile photography. Captured through the lens of photographer Norman Jean Roy, the imagery leans into a dreamlike, atmospheric aesthetic, utilizing thick, billowing clouds of smoke to shroud the subject in an ethereal, almost cinematic haze. The visual narrative relies on a sophisticated, muted palette of whites and greys, allowing the interplay of soft, diffused natural light to highlight the structural elegance of Theron’s wardrobe. Law Roach’s fashion direction emphasizes this clean, high-fashion minimalism, juxtaposing structured blazers and delicate gowns with the chaotic, swirling texture of the smoke. Complementing this, Adir Abergel’s work with voluminous, wind-swept waves and Kate Lee’s neutral, precise makeup application serve to maintain a sense of grounded intimacy amidst the otherworldly environment. By blending editorial portrait techniques with a distinctly cinematic sensibility, the project manages to capture a sense of movement and contemplative poise. The result is a series of images that feel both high-concept and deeply personal, capturing the duality of strength and fragility inherent in the subject. This collaboration creates a cohesive, stylized identity for the feature, proving that high-key and chiaroscuro lighting can successfully coexist to craft a timeless, artistic vision within the competitive landscape of the magazines, media, and entertainment industry.

Elle U.S. · Elle U.S. Summer 2026 Covers

For the Elle U.S. Summer 2026 covers, the editorial team masterfully leans into a moody, sophisticated aesthetic that redefines traditional celebrity portraiture for the magazine media industry. The project highlights a cinematic approach to the classic magazine cover, most notably captured in the imagery featuring Anne Hathaway. By shooting behind a rain-streaked glass surface, photographer Norman Jean Roy establishes an atmosphere of intimate detachment, allowing the moisture-drenched texture to distort and frame the subject in a way that feels both grounded and ethereal. This editorial choice shifts the focus away from standard high-gloss perfection toward a more visceral, natural light composition that emphasizes depth and color intensity. Styled by fashion editor Law Roach, the visual narrative is reinforced by a deliberate use of deep blues and teals, grounding the subject within a cooling, melancholic palette that contrasts beautifully against the warmth often associated with summer releases. Beyond the surface-level polish, this collection demonstrates a cohesive creative vision where set design and nuanced makeup artistry play supporting roles in elevating the final output. The resulting images serve as a masterclass in modern portrait photography, proving that even within a traditional commercial framework, there remains ample room for experimental techniques that prioritize atmosphere and artistic integrity over mere utility, ultimately creating a lasting impact for the iconic publication.

Elle U.S. · Broad Strokes

In the vibrant fashion editorial Broad Strokes for Elle U.S., the intersection of luxury fashion houses and raw, industrial environments is explored with a sophisticated lens. The project captures the essence of contemporary style through a series of portraits that lean into editorial minimalism, utilizing the interplay between high-fashion silhouettes and distressed, weathered backgrounds. Photographer Daniel Archer skillfully utilizes natural light to emphasize the tactile quality of complex garments, from deep navy ostrich feathers to intricate, raised floral embroidery. Styled by Gro Curtis, the compositions channel an atmospheric, lived-in energy, moving away from sterile studio tropes in favor of environments featuring rustic wooden chairs, aged concrete walls, and peeling paint. The styling, elevated by the precise hair artistry of Werner Amort and the nuanced makeup by Laura Dominique, complements the models' poise—most notably model Anna Robinson, whose direct, intentional gazes anchor the chaotic layers and varied textures. By prioritizing soft, diffused illumination over harsh studio setups, the series maintains a cinematic aesthetic that celebrates craftsmanship. Each image serves as a study in contrast, blending the luxury of jewel-toned satin suits and leather trousers with the grounding, muted tones of the rustic studio spaces. The final collection reads as an organic, yet meticulously curated narrative that speaks to the enduring power of textures within the high-fashion landscape.

Elle U.S. · A Winter's Tale

In A Winter's Tale, Elle U.S. leans into the intersection of high-end luxury and raw materiality through a striking editorial campaign that redefines the traditional fashion still life. Photographer Sergiy Barchuk captures a series of meticulously curated compositions where iconic accessories, including pieces from Miu Miu and Chanel, are juxtaposed against disparate natural and industrial elements. By pairing polished, structured handbags and delicate footwear with rugged components like concrete bricks, forest moss, and even organic forms, the project channels a raw, textural energy that highlights the craftsmanship of each item. The visual narrative relies heavily on studio strobe lighting to maintain a clean, minimalist aesthetic, allowing the intricate details of leather grains and metallic hardware to remain the central focus. The work of set designer Alicia Sciberras is instrumental here, as she constructs precise, sculptural vignettes that transform everyday fashion items into artful objects of desire. Whether featuring a high-heeled shoe balanced precariously on heavy industrial stone or a tan leather bag resting amidst wild moss, the imagery emphasizes a tactile contrast that feels both sophisticated and grounded. This collection successfully marries editorial minimalism with creative art direction, resulting in a series that feels perfectly at home in the elevated pages of a premier fashion publication while pushing the boundaries of standard commercial product photography.

Elle U.S. · Sofia Coppola by Carin Backoff

In this evocative feature for Elle U.S., photographer Carin Backoff captures the singular aesthetic of director Sofia Coppola, blending high-fashion sensibilities with the quiet intimacy of a personal interior space. The project functions as a masterclass in editorial portraiture, utilizing a mix of natural light and punchy, direct flash to define the texture of Coppola’s wardrobe—ranging from bold, polka-dot-patterned outerwear to understated, structured tailoring. With fashion styling by Alex White, the imagery leans into a clean, cinematic minimalism that feels both candid and deliberate. The shoot transcends traditional celebrity coverage by grounding the subject in an environment that feels lived-in, featuring meticulous contributions from hair stylist Orlando Pita, makeup artist Dick Page, and manicurist Eri Handa, whose subtle details provide a polished finish to each look. Set design by Elaine Winter further enhances the narrative, transforming the space into a cohesive backdrop that reflects a refined, global lifestyle. By oscillating between high-contrast chiaroscuro techniques and bright, airy lifestyle compositions, Backoff creates a visual dialogue that feels as sophisticated as its subject. This collaboration is a quintessential example of modern media production, where technical precision meets a relaxed, authentic energy, resulting in a series of portraits that are as timeless as the classic silhouettes they highlight.

Elle U.S. · Odessa A'zion

In this striking editorial feature for Elle U.S., actress Odessa A'zion takes center stage, demonstrating an effortless command of space and silhouette. Photographer Carin Backoff captures the rising star through a lens of refined minimalism, utilizing a mix of studio strobe and natural light to emphasize the sculptural quality of the garments. The project thrives on the juxtaposition of high-fashion tailoring and playful, candid moments; whether A'zion is draped in tiered, ruffled black volumes or pairing a structured, gold-buttoned jacket with a casual serving of french fries, the imagery maintains a cohesive, sophisticated rhythm. Fashion editor and stylist Alex White curates a wardrobe that balances architectural complexity with casual, lived-in textures, while the clean, white-walled backdrop ensures the focus remains entirely on the interplay between fabric and form. The technical precision of the photography is elevated by the intricate grooming work of hair stylist Teddy Charles and makeup artist Kennedy, alongside a subtle but effective set design by Lauren Machen that leans into the quiet, editorial portrait style. Every frame functions as a study in poise, utilizing direct lighting and sharp composition to transform simple studio portraiture into a vibrant, modern statement. The result is a series that feels both curated and refreshingly authentic, anchoring the editorial narrative through meticulous attention to detail and a clear, focused creative vision.