Harper's Bazaar UK

Jul 2026

Harper’s Bazaar UK’s Hot To Go editorial is a masterclass in seasonal storytelling, capturing the essence of coastal escapism through a series of sun-drenched portraits. Photographer Jesse Laitinen harnesses natural light to create an aesthetic that feels both raw and curated, oscillating between wide, relaxed beachside moments and tight, high-fashion beauty compositions. The visual narrative leans into editorial minimalism, allowing the textures of a quilted red swimsuit or a pinstriped midi dress to take center stage against soft, blurry horizons. Central to the success of this series is the collaboration between stylist Grace Clarke and the rest of the creative team, who collectively elevate the beach setting from a simple backdrop to a deliberate environment for fashion discovery. Hair stylist Konstantinos Sakkas keeps the styling grounded with wavy updos and the deliberate addition of a ruffled swim cap, while makeup artist Ninni Nummela emphasizes a fresh, dewy complexion punctuated by striking turquoise nail lacquer. Model Mila Bergsma serves as the grounding force throughout, holding the viewer’s gaze even when obscured by the soft-focus effect of a water-drenched diving mask. By eschewing over-production in favor of clarity and soft, even illumination, the project succeeds in blending lifestyle warmth with high-fashion sophistication, resulting in a cohesive set of images that feel remarkably clean and modern for a publication deeply rooted in the editorial tradition.

Editorial, Lifestyle, Lifestyle, Vertical, Vertical

Natural light, Natural light