Financial Times - HTSI Magazine

Apr 2026

In this sophisticated fashion editorial for Financial Times HTSI magazine, titled How to style a white shirt, photographer Rodrigo Carmuega masterfully strips back the noise to focus on the enduring versatility of a wardrobe essential. Through a series of clean, studio-based portraits, the project leans into editorial minimalism, showcasing the white shirt not as a basic, but as a structural centerpiece. Styled by Aylin Bayhan, the imagery explores the architectural potential of tailoring, where crisp cotton meets unexpected layers like corsetry, sheer wraps, and exaggerated collars. The visual narrative relies heavily on studio strobe lighting to emphasize fabric texture and clean lines, while the occasional inclusion of natural light brings a soft, humanizing quality to the high-fashion aesthetic. With the poised presence of model Valery Sergeeva, the work feels both timeless and modern. The collaboration between hair stylist Kota Suizu, who opts for sleek, polished updos, and makeup artist Eoin Whelan, who maintains a refined, neutral look, ensures the focus remains squarely on the interplay of silhouettes and tone. By utilizing bold, solid-colored backdrops ranging from moody charcoal to stark white, the team transforms the garment into an exercise in form. This series successfully bridges the gap between functional attire and artful design, proving that even the simplest staple can become a canvas for creative expression.

Editorial, Vertical

Studio strobe