London-based Self-Portrait was launched by Han Chong in November 2013. He feels there is somewhat of a whitespace between fast fashion and high-priced luxury wares. Han has an extraordinary talent to deconstruct classic shapes and develop these into new, more playful and mischievous designs, creating transitional city-wear pieces using luxury fabrics at mid-range price points.
The Self-Portrait perfect girl is the one who isn’t afraid to step out and get noticed. Han’s designs are inspired by street style and contrasting hard and soft silhouettes in experimental fabrics with unexpected textures, that create a feminine aesthetic with classic details. The studio’s collections include statement cocktail dresses, androgynous jackets and perfectly structured tees, mixing classic details to create a modern look. Self-Portrait is deeply committed to reducing its environmental footprint.
Since 2019, the brand has been integrating responsibly sourced fibres into its collections, including organic cotton and recycled chiffon, with the introduction of recycled viscose in 2020. With a global presence, Self-Portrait is available online at self-portrait.com and through flagship stores in London, Bangkok, Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Shenzhen, and Taipei. The brand’s offerings can also be found at select retailers worldwide.
Talent: Apple Martin, Photographer: Ryan McGinley, Stylist: Mel Ottenberg, Make-Up: Yadim Carranza, Hair: Evanie Frausto, Direction: Han Chong, Art Direction: Simmonds Ltd.
Captured by acclaimed photographer Ryan McGinley, the latest self-portrait campaign stars Apple Martin in a series of intimate portraits shot earlier this year on a farm in upstate New York. Known for his authentic depictions of youth culture, McGinley uses expansive American landscapes to frame a raw and contemplative exploration of identity, freedom and self-expression.
Styled by Mel Ottenberg, Apple wears pieces from the brand’s latest ready-to-wear collection, including a white fine lace and satin maxi dress, an off-the-shoulder polka dot mini dress and a silver gradient sequin dress. The fluid silhouettes and sunlit textures reflect a sense of individuality and openness, mirroring Apple’s coming of age and evolving personal style as she steps confidently into the spotlight.
Talent: Apple Martin, Photographer: Ryan McGinley, Stylist: Mel Ottenberg, Make-Up: Yadim Carranza, Hair: Evanie Frausto, Direction: Han Chong, Art Direction: Simmonds Ltd.
At 21, Apple embodies a defining milestone for many within self-portrait’s loyal community – a celebration of self-discovery and womanhood, aligned with the brand’s continued dedication to supporting women as they express themselves with confidence and ease.
Apple Martin said: “Debuting with self-portrait was a no-brainer – their British spirit reminds me of growing up in London, so it’s felt like home from the start. Han and the team welcomed me in as part of the creative process and I’m so excited for this campaign to be out in the world.”