SCMP Style South China Morning Post Style Magazine

May 2026

Dressed Down, a compelling editorial feature for SCMP Style, masterfully dissects the evolving landscape of contemporary menswear through a lens of refined minimalism. Photographed by Ben Lamberty, this series leans into the tension between structured tailoring and relaxed, athletic silhouettes. With expert fashion styling from Aryeh Lappin, the project showcases an eclectic wardrobe that ranges from vibrant electric blue ensembles to sharp leather jackets, all captured within the controlled environment of a studio strobe setup. The editorial relies on a stark, clean aesthetic where the focus remains tethered to the interplay between the subjects—brought to life with presence by models like Braien Vaiksaar and Mathieu Simoneau—and the garments themselves. By utilizing high-key lighting and minimalist backgrounds, the photography emphasizes crisp lines and intricate fabric textures, from sheer synthetic jackets to fine-knit wools. The visual narrative moves with a deliberate, dynamic energy, as seen in the mid-stride poses and confident stances that define the editorial portrait work. Ultimately, Dressed Down operates as a study in contrast, successfully balancing the precision of high-fashion photography with a modern, approachable sensibility that strips away the noise to spotlight pure sartorial form. It is a testament to the power of a monochromatic backdrop to elevate fashion design, allowing every deliberate detail of the styling to command full attention.

Editorial, Vertical, Vertical, Editorial, Vertical

Studio strobe, Studio strobe