Have you ever flipped through a magazine, paused at a dramatic photo of a sharply dressed man, and thought, “I want to look like that” — but didn’t know where to start? Whether you’re a stylist, model, or a guy who wants to translate high-fashion editorial energy into real life, this guide on fashion editorial men will walk you through creative direction, outfit combinations, and practical on-set tips that actually work.
What is a men’s fashion editorial and why it matters
A men’s fashion editorial is more than a pretty outfit — it’s storytelling through clothing, pose, mood, light, and location. Editorial spreads (think lookbooks, magazine features, or online fashion editorials) aim to inspire and push style boundaries. For menswear, that means experimenting with silhouette, texture, and proportion while keeping a coherent theme that communicates a clear idea.
Fashion editorial men: concept, moodboard, and prep
Start with a concept and moodboard
Pick a narrative: urban minimalism, retro-sport, neo-dandy, or utility-tailoring. Build a moodboard with reference images, color swatches, and fabric samples. This early blueprint ensures the stylist, photographer, and model speak the same visual language.
Assemble the right garments
For editorial styling, prioritize structure and texture. Key pieces to consider:
- Single and double-breasted suits in unexpected fabrics (corduroy, washed wool)
- Statement outerwear: oversized overcoats, leather trenches, technical shells
- Layering pieces: knit turtlenecks, chunky cardigans, shackets
- Accessories that tell a story: hats, bold belts, layered chains, and eyewear
Think in contrasts — soft knit with rigid tailoring, or luxe fabrics mixed with workwear elements.
How to style for the camera: tips editors love
Fit and tailoring matter
Clothes that read well on camera are rarely baggy or ill-fitting. Slightly exaggerated proportions often work best for editorial work — a roomy overcoat, wide-leg trousers, or an oversized blazer — but always tailor where it counts: shoulder line, sleeve length, and pant hem.
Texture, color, and pattern
Cameras love texture. Wool, suede, shearling, and leather add depth. For color palettes, choose a dominant tone and two accents (example: charcoal base + oxblood + cream). If you want drama, use high-contrast combos; if you want a moody, cohesive look, opt for tonal variations of the same color.
Movement and layers
Editorial shots live in motion — coats that flare, scarves that catch wind, sleeves pushed up. Build outfits with dynamic elements to give the photographer options for motion and texture.
Street-to-runway outfit combinations for editorial shoots
Below are ready-made outfit ideas that translate well from lookbook to magazine page, and even into everyday high-fashion dressing.
The modern tailored rebel
- Navy double-breasted blazer (slightly oversized)
- Black high-neck knit
- Cropped tapered trousers
- Clean white sneakers or chunky leather boots
- Minimal silver chain and a leather cuff
Nomadic layered utility
- Technical field jacket over a denim shirt
- Neutral cargo trousers
- Suede Chelsea boots
- Wool beanie and a crossbody bag
Heritage meets high fashion
- Textured tweed overcoat
- Chunky cable-knit sweater
- Wide-leg corduroy pants
- Retro sunglasses and leather gloves
On-set and real-world advice for editorial shoots
Producing a successful editorial is part planning, part improvisation. Here are practical tips to keep things smooth:
- Pack backups: extra shirts, ties, and buttons for quick fixes.
- Prep grooming: clean nails, trimmed facial hair, and a light skin touch-up kit.
- Bring a steaming kit to remove wrinkles; fabrics photograph differently under lights.
- Communicate with the photographer about poses and silhouette priorities before shooting.
- Make wardrobe changes fast by having outfits organized and labeled.
Fashion editorial men: building a portfolio
If you’re a model or stylist, a strong portfolio demonstrates range. Include studio portraits, high-contrast fashion shots, street-style editorials, and conceptual series. Curate with intention — quality over quantity. Regularly update a digital lookbook and share select images on social channels with descriptive captions and relevant hashtags to grow visibility.
Styling tips every guy can borrow from editorials
- Invest in tailoring: even inexpensive garments look elevated when they fit well.
- Experiment with one statement piece at a time — overcoats, patterned trousers, or bold accessories.
- Mix high and low items: luxury jacket + affordable knit = editorial tension.
- Mind the silhouette: balance oversized and slim pieces to avoid looking shapeless.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the difference between fashion editorial men and commercial menswear photography?
Editorial photography focuses on storytelling, mood, and creative direction — it’s expressive and often avant-garde. Commercial menswear is product-driven and aims to sell an item with clean, clear presentation. Editorials take creative liberties that commercial shoots generally avoid.
2. Can I use editorial styling ideas in everyday outfits?
Yes. Take one or two editorial elements (a dramatic coat, unexpected texture, or bold accessory) and incorporate them into your daily look. The key is restraint — let the statement piece be the star while keeping the rest of the outfit simple.
3. How do I prepare for my first editorial shoot as a model?
Sleep well, hydrate your skin, and bring a small kit (comb, lip balm, blotting paper). Arrive with a few looks pre-chosen, but be flexible. Practice a range of poses and expressions that match the moodboard, and communicate with the creative team to make sure your energy fits the concept.
Conclusion
Fashion editorial men is about translating narrative into clothing: choosing strong silhouettes, interesting textures, and compositional harmony that reads well in print and online. Whether you’re building a lookbook, styling a shoot, or simply elevating your everyday wardrobe, the editorial approach — thoughtful concept, attention to fit, and risk-taking with one standout element — will instantly sharpen your aesthetic. Ready to bring editorial energy to your wardrobe or next photoshoot? Try one of the outfit combinations above and check out more styling guides for men in our archives: Styling Tips for Men, Best Blazers for Men, or explore grooming essentials in our Men’s Grooming Guide. Tell me which look you tried in the comments — I’ll help you tailor it for your personal style.
