Model Jakob Jokerst posing dynamically in a pinstripe suit and polka-dot scarf against a plain studio background.

Jakob Jokerst posing in a dark pinstripe suit with an oversized polka dot tie against a plain wall for Esquire Portugal.

Jakob Jokerst wearing an oversized brown herringbone coat layered over a hoodie and striped shirt for Esquire Portugal.

Model Jakob Jokerst reclining in a grey armchair in a dark collared jacket with three miniature toy cars placed along his arm.

Model Jakob Jokerst reclining on a wooden floor against an off-white wall in a navy robe, purple trousers, and smoking a cigarette.

Jakob Jokerst standing in a cropped teal knit sweater, pastel pink shorts, and blue loafers against a neutral studio backdrop.

Jakob Jokerst resting his chin on his hands wearing a dark green knit sweater and black polka dot scarf.

Model Jakob Jokerst wearing a dark green knit sweater, trousers, and a black polka dot neck scarf in front of a neutral studio background.

Jakob Jokerst poses in a turquoise knit sweater, pink shorts, and a white cap while holding a small blue toy car on his knee.

Model Jakob Jokerst sitting on a wooden floor in a pinstripe suit, polka dot shirt and tie, holding a cigarette in his mouth.

High-angle view of model Jakob Jokerst in wire-frame glasses and a red knit sweater seated on a wooden chair.

Esquire Portugal Inner Essence 2026

About

In the latest editorial spread for Esquire Portugal, titled Inner Essence, the confluence of high-fashion tailoring and whimsical, childhood-inspired art direction creates a striking visual narrative. Photographer Alessandro Lo Faro expertly maneuvers the balance between rigid structure and soft, contemplative stillness, framing model Jakob Jokerst within a minimalist studio environment that demands focus on texture and form. The series leans into editorial minimalism, utilizing natural light and soft light techniques to emphasize the complex interplay of layered knitwear, pinstriped suits, and bold polka dot patterns. Rather than settling for standard fashion portraiture, the creative team introduces unexpected, playful elements—such as miniature model cars and deliberately placed props—which subvert the formal nature of the outfits and introduce a layer of narrative ambiguity. By oscillating between cinematic intensity and relaxed, lifestyle-oriented composition, the project highlights a sophisticated range of masculine expression. The execution is polished and deliberate, demonstrating a mastery of studio lighting that brings depth to the tactile quality of wool, silk, and cable-knit fabrics. Through the combined vision of editor José Santana and casting director Alexis Negrin, Inner Essence serves as a masterclass in modern styling, where the juxtaposition of vibrant color palettes and muted, neutral backdrops allows the subject’s internal posture to take center stage, resulting in a timeless, highly evocative visual experience.