The Italian Roots Project
A Personal Tribute Through Fashion Photography
- The Final Images -
The BTS Images
fashion photography project is inspired by my heritage
Welcome to the Italian Roots Project
This fashion photography project is inspired by my heritage — being both British and Italian. I grew up in the UK, but I spent most of my childhood summers in Italy between the ages of 7 and 10. I explored small villages, connected with extended family, and discovered the deep cultural roots that shaped who I am today.
Now, years later, I wanted to bring that experience to life through a full editorial fashion shoot, capturing the essence of Italy through vibrant colours, iconic architecture, and an atmosphere that blends both modern and rustic themes.
This project isn’t just about beautiful imagery — it’s about identity, memory, and storytelling. Just like with Fashionably Drunk, where we explored the darker side of the fashion industry, The Italian Roots Project goes in a different direction — more personal, more nostalgic, but just as visual.
The Concept:
Two Worlds, One Heritage
Set One: Modern Italy – A Contemporary Fashion Story
This set is inspired by modern Italian fashion — clean lines, warm tones, and that dreamy summer glow. We used a colour board of green, white, and red to echo the Italian flag, while giving the visuals a modern editorial edge.
Think linen shirts, vintage Vespas, and sleek sunglasses under the Italian sun — the perfect blend of Italian fashion photography and minimal styling.
We styled this set with a high-fashion lens, influenced by luxury fashion campaigns and summer issues of GQ Italia or Vogue Italia. The location and props were chosen to reflect Italy’s timeless sophistication while keeping everything fresh and relevant for a UK audience.
This shoot is split into two main sets: Modern Italy and Rustic Italy.
Each set reflects a different side of my heritage, showing the contrast between the fast-paced, polished Italy and the raw, authentic charm of village life.
Set Two: Rustic Italy – Capturing Tradition Through the Lens
This part of the shoot dives deeper into my personal memories.
We built an organic, textured set that mirrors what you’d see in a quiet, historic village in southern Italy — faded archways, stone-paved streets, and aged wooden doors.
These visuals are all about warmth, connection, and tradition. It’s the kind of place you’d find tucked away in the hills — where locals still hand-pick tomatoes and hang washing across balconies. We styled it with earthy tones, natural fabrics, and subtle vintage touches to keep it authentic.
Everything from the lighting to the set build was designed to evoke nostalgia — especially those long summer nights eating with family outside under fairy lights.