Vogue Netherlands Man

Jul 2026

In this sophisticated editorial feature for Vogue Netherlands Man, photographer Felix Cooper captures the multifaceted persona of professional footballer Virgil van Dijk through a series of striking, minimalist portraits. Moving beyond the pitch, the project explores a high-fashion narrative that balances athletic presence with refined tailoring. The visual identity of the shoot relies heavily on editorial minimalism, utilizing neutral studio backgrounds and soft, directional natural light to pull focus directly toward the subject. Stylist Pernille Teisbaek masterfully curates an ensemble that oscillates between deconstructed pinstripe suiting, sharp leather outerwear, and relaxed, everyday luxe, effectively grounding the athlete in a contemporary fashion context. The technical execution is polished, alternating between the soft diffusion of natural light and the crisp precision of studio strobe techniques, which serve to emphasize both the intricate texture of the clothing and the subject’s own defining features. The hair styling by Takuya Yamaguchi, featuring precise, neat braids, adds a sharp, architectural element to the composition that resonates with the clean lines of the garments. Ultimately, the work succeeds by shedding the traditional tropes of sports photography in favor of a timeless, contemplative aesthetic, presenting a portrait of Van Dijk that feels both elevated and intimately personal, cementing his status as a figure of influence in both sport and style.

Editorial, Vertical

Natural light

Magazines, Media & Entertainment