Kartik Research

Feb 2026

The Kartik Research S/S 26 campaign is a masterclass in modern storytelling, grounding the label’s intricate designs in a raw, tactile reality. Under the creative vision of fashion director Julie Ragolia, the campaign leans into an editorial sensibility that feels as much like a documentary as it is a showcase for craftsmanship. Photographer Phil Engelhardt expertly captures the collection through the lens of a classic 35mm film aesthetic, favoring natural light and high-contrast, low-key chiaroscuro lighting to elevate the clothing. Whether set against the expansive, weathered terrain of a desert or framed by ornate historical architecture, the imagery prioritizes the interplay between movement and stillness. The photographs oscillate between gritty, cinematic compositions and clean, focused portraiture, meticulously highlighting the intricate white embroidery and structured textiles that define Kartik Kumra’s latest work. By blending the organic textures of the environment with the sharp, deliberate tailoring of the apparel, the campaign achieves a quiet, contemplative atmosphere. This is a refined take on the fashion lookbook, moving beyond simple product display to craft a narrative defined by texture, isolation, and scale. Every frame serves as a testament to the brand's dedication to detail, utilizing the raw quality of analogue film to ground these sophisticated, patterned pieces in a hauntingly beautiful, cinematic world.

Editorial, Lifestyle, Lifestyle

Natural light, Analogue / film, Analogue / film

Designer Fashion, Fashion