In the February/March 2024 issue of Vogue Scandinavia, athleticism intersects with fashion. Dutch soccer player Virgil van Dijk, renowned for his formidable presence on the field, transitions effortlessly into the role of a model, embodying the aesthetic and ethos of Rains, the innovative outerwear brand.
Virgil van Dijk for Vogue Scandinavia
The issue features van Dijk, captured by photographer Angelina Mamoun-Bergenwall, bringing a raw and expressive dimension to the visual narrative. The styling by Alexandra Bickerdike showcases van Dijk in a selection of Rains’ latest offerings, which reflect the brand’s Scandinavian roots with clean lines and minimalist design.
In a striking display of versatility, van Dijk graces the fashion spread and brings to light the story of Rains’ Danish co-founders, Philip Lotko and Daniel Brix. The designers, who regard van Dijk as a friend, chose him for the fashion shoot, seeing in him the embodiment of their brand’s values.
Lotko shares, “Virgil represents a lot of good values and ones I see in us. He’s a leader on and off the pitch, a family man and trying to be the best in what he’s doing.”
The designer continues, “To be able to work with Virgil because of the common values we share is a huge and honorable achievement.”
Van Dijk’s foray into the fashion domain with Rains is not merely a side step from his athletic career but a parallel narrative that showcases his multifaceted personality and the universal applicability of the brand’s ethos.
Grooming: Sunao Takashi
Digital Operator: Per Nilsson
Lighting Assistant: Harry Gillespie
Stylist Assistants: Brigitte Kovats, Federice Cantarelli, Daniela Suarez
Grooming Assistant: Myuji Sato
Producer: Kate Maidment
Production Assistant: Shaunna Henry
