The Sunshine Syndrome

Name: Cecilie Harris
Price range: $

8 April 2019

Photographer Jade Danielle Smith
Fashion Christopher Preston
Words Matthew Regan
Grooming Meredith Lacosse
Model Toby Watkins at IMG Models

If you live anywhere remotely un-tropical, or anywhere that seemingly drifts into darkness for six (or eight) months of the year, you learn to grasp every droplet of sunshine that you possibly can. Here’s some good news - spring is (kind of, almost) but not quite sprung. This exclusive editorial, featuring Toby Watkins at IMG Models, photographed by Jade Danielle Smith, is here to remind you of that feeling. That unexplainable connection between the sun and us, aka the little specks that occupy the planet far below.

Yes, it’s Sunday. Definitely Sunday, or maybe even Saturday. Either way, you’ve been woken up early by the blazing light pouring through the curtain. Normally, you’d be angry - but it’s been away for so long, that any kiss from that old friend is welcome here. Every pore, every fine line on your face is illuminated; together as one in golden-flaxen-dusty shards.

Toby, with his boyish charm, takes it easy with the obligatory accessory for any self-respecting Brit - the cuppa/digestive biscuit combination. Looking out into the street below, the promise of a new day calls him out. Through narrow alleys and past buildings that have stood long before him; no deadlines, no plans - just peace. At least for now, because today is a well of opportunity. Because he has told the world that it is.

Stylist Christopher Preston works with relaxed silhouettes; sportswear goes lux with heritage checks, bold stripes, and a ‘70s sensibility. The look is all about the classic gentleman, with all of the confidence and pomp, and none of the exclusivity. It’s a warm embrace with the scent of burnt tobacco and vanilla, just perfect for strolling through Portobello market - or somewhere else in London that bustles with the same humble beauty. Can all days be like this one, universe? Pretty please.