Esquire Italia

Mar 2026

In the latest editorial showcase for Esquire Italia, titled I've Seen That Face Before, the boundary between commercial polish and high-art portraiture is deftly blurred. This fashion campaign serves as a masterclass in editorial minimalism, leaning heavily into clean, focused compositions that allow the garments to command the narrative. Photographer James Robjant captures a series of striking portraits that oscillate between the soft, airy aesthetic of natural light and the raw, tangible grit of a working photo studio. Under the expert eye of fashion editor and stylist Stephanie Kherlakian, the ensembles—ranging from pastel oversized trench coats to structured blazers layered with ornate floral prints—are treated as architectural elements rather than mere clothing. The imagery is meticulously balanced, utilizing soft light to highlight the intricate textures of the layering, while the deliberate inclusion of studio lighting gear behind the scenes grounds the ethereal visuals in a grounded, authentic reality. With casting directed by Simone Bart Rocchietti, the diverse ensemble of models brings a stoic, contemporary presence to the project, complemented perfectly by the precision of Alessandro Squarza’s hair styling and the refined makeup artistry of Lorenzo Zavatta. Ultimately, the project succeeds by prioritizing a pared-back aesthetic that emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between modern luxury menswear and the nuanced, classic editorial techniques that define high-end contemporary fashion imagery.

Lifestyle, Editorial, Commercial

Natural light, Soft Light

Luxury Fashion Houses, Fashion