WSJ: Queen of Couture

Oct 2026

For WSJ Magazine’s Queen of Couture project, photographer and art director Szilveszter Mako captures model Gigi Hadid in a series of surreal, painterly portraits. The editorial leans into a trompe l’oeil aesthetic, placing Hadid within intricate, miniature architectural dioramas that blend high fashion with theatrical set design. Fashion editor and stylist Gabriella Karefa-Johnson curates an avant-garde wardrobe, featuring sculptural silhouettes, textured velvet gowns, and dramatic drapery. The compositions utilize soft, directional lighting to highlight architectural details like ornate cornicing and wainscoting, creating a moody, gallery-like atmosphere. The production is rounded out by hair styling from Pablo Kuemin, makeup by Cécile Paravina, and detailed environments crafted by set designer Edith di Monda, with production managed by Siyan Chen.

Editorial, Artistic, Vertical, Earthy

Set-dressed

Editorial, Advertising Campaign