TEKIN An Icelandic Fashion Tale
Where Bold Fashion Meets Iceland’s Raw Beauty
First and foremost, TEKIN: An Icelandic Tale celebrates contrasts. Iceland’s rugged landscape, filled with icy plains and volcanic cliffs, becomes the perfect canvas. The editorial depicts an imagined odyssey, starting with the aftermath of a plane crash and unraveling across volcanic rock, weather-beaten wood buildings, and desolate open plains. Along the way, wild seas crash against cliffs, horses roam freely, and vibrant yellow flower fields appear like oases in the rugged terrain. Breathtaking waterfalls cascade through the imagery, adding a sense of grandeur. Each frame immerses us in Iceland’s raw beauty, blending these natural elements with bold, avant-garde fashion. However, the fashion stands out in vibrant, primary hues, creating a striking juxtaposition.
Furthermore, Kezi Ban’s photography enhances this bold visual narrative. Red dresses, electric blues, and vivid yellows clash magnificently with Iceland’s muted, gray and green palette. Meanwhile, avant-garde silhouettes echo the graphic shapes of the landscape. Designers like Lie Sangbong bring architectural flair that aligns perfectly with the country’s stark terrains. Additionally, the garments highlight edgy designs, structured shapes, and unconventional details. As a result, each piece transforms the wild Icelandic environment into a bold, futuristic runway.
Vibrant Styling That Moves With the Elements
Not only do the garments contrast with the environment, but they also reflect the energy of Iceland’s unpredictable weather. For instance, flowing fabrics from Monique Huillier interact dynamically with the wind. Meanwhile, Mugler adds a grounding element to the fluidity. Moreover, Samantha Angelo brings life to the styling, delivering poses that feel both powerful and elegant. Her movements emphasize the bold shapes and colors.
Icelandic Fashion, Redefined
Ultimately, TEKIN: An Icelandic Tale tells a story that redefines Icelandic fashion. Through its use of primary colors, bold shapes, and striking contrasts, the editorial crafts a fresh narrative. Each garment, whether from Flagpole or Reem Acra, becomes a statement of fearless creativity.
In addition, Kezi Ban’s direction captures Iceland’s duality—untamed beauty and modern sophistication. While the landscape feels timeless, the avant-garde styling pushes boundaries. This balance ensures the editorial resonates with both art and fashion audiences. Lastly, TEKIN serves as a testament to collaboration. By combining global designers with Iceland’s natural wonders, the editorial creates something truly unforgettable.
Photographer/Editor/Director Kezi Ban
Model/Creative Director Samantha Angelo
Hair and Make Up Sarah O’Brien
Producer Guorun Danielsdottir
Colorful bold suit Moon Lee
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Thomas Wener is our Editor at Large since August 16th 2016. He is the author of the book "The Fashion Image" for Bloomsbury Press, London (2017), and an Assistant Professor and past Photography Program Director at Parsons School of Design in New York. The former owner of Thomas Werner Gallery in Manhattan’s Chelsea Art District, he currently lectures internationally on topics of photography, fashion, education, and contemporary professional practices, and recently lead a team developing a media and literacy web site and resource center in five languages, Spanish, French, Russian, Arabic and English for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations/UNESCO. Thomas has worked with the Department of State as a cultural representative in Russia, and been a photography consultant for COACH and Rodale Publishing, among others. He is a recurrent instructor at the United Nations Education First Summer School, and is presenting workshops on effective message development and communication on an international basis.
Over the last nine years his personal work has been Russia and Ukraine centric, spending an average or 70 days a year there partnering with 33 cultural, educational, and governmental organizations to develop projects in 34 cities. The focus of this work has been the introduction of the principles of civil society, the advancement of media literacy and contemporary education methodologies, and the development of creative cultures within the country. He has curated exhibitions in the United States and abroad, and his personal art work and private collection of Russian photographs and artifacts have been exhibited internationally.
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