Blending gothic romance, sculptural jewellery and dark medieval influences, the series explores the tension between delicacy and strength, beauty and danger, softness and armour.
The project began with a visual idea: a figure suspended between ethereal femininity and a darker, more powerful presence. Through the interplay of metallic textures, crystal embellishments, black styling and dramatic light, I wanted to create a fashion story that feels timeless, mysterious and cinematic.
Behind the Concept
Before the shoot, I developed a visual direction built around gothic architecture, thorn-like forms, medieval weaponry and the reflective surfaces of metal and crystals.
The moodboards helped define the atmosphere and visual language of the story. Stormy landscapes, weathered stone, ruined arches and dark romantic imagery established the setting, while the contrast between black fabrics, silver metal and pale tones informed the styling and lighting direction.
Rather than recreating a historical period, the intention was to reinterpret these references through a contemporary fashion lens — creating something dramatic and mythological while keeping the imagery editorial and refined.
Jewellery as Armour
Jewellery played a central role in shaping the visual identity of *Chains of Thorns*.
The chainmail-inspired headpiece, sculptural metallic details and crystal-embellished gloves introduced a sense of armour, transforming accessories into an extension of the character. Their reflective surfaces brought texture and contrast to the images, while a restrained red accent added a subtle note of danger.
Pieces from Chains of Thorns became an important part of the styling, connecting the gothic references with a contemporary, fashion-led aesthetic.
Light, Texture & Contrast
The visual approach centred on the relationship between light and shadow, reflective surfaces and softer textures.
Against a restrained studio setting, the metallic accessories and crystal details became visual focal points. Close-up portraits emphasised the intricate styling, while wider compositions introduced the sword as a strong graphic element within the story.
Moving between intimate beauty imagery and more sculptural poses allowed the series to reveal different sides of the same character — vulnerable yet powerful, delicate yet defiant.
Centred around a striking contrast of delicate beauty and dark, armour-like details, the series explores a world where elegance meets strength. Sculptural crystal embellishments, black opera gloves, metallic jewellery and a weathered sword create a visual language that feels both contemporary and mythological.
Through a combination of controlled studio lighting, expressive portraiture and considered styling, I wanted to create images that feel cinematic while retaining the intimacy of a fashion editorial. The contrast between the model’s ethereal appearance and the harder, more dramatic accessories became central to the story.
The project was developed through photography and creative direction, bringing together a talented team whose individual contributions helped shape the final visual narrative.
Thank you to everyone involved in bringing this story to life, and to Artells Magazine for featuring the work.
Editorial: Chains of Thorns
Publication: Artells Magazine — Fantasy & AI, September issue
Concept, Creative Direction & Photography: Maria Poleshchuk
Model: Alexandra Rybakova @russiandoll.au
Make-up: Iullia — @iullia.mua
Hair: Alena — @alena_braider
Videography: Victor Hawk @victorhawkart
Dress: BODYCON Collection
Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Additional Shoes: CURTSY
Jewellery: Jianhui London
Headpiece: Chains of Thorns
Gloves: Black Crystal Opera Gloves
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Maria!
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for yesterday. The six-hour photo and video shoot was truly magical, and I’m still so impressed by the whole experience.
It’s incredible to see how much talent, energy and heart everyone involved put into this project. You both worked with such dedication, attention to every detail and incredible professionalism that the atmosphere on set was truly special. Everyone gave it 100%, and that really means a lot.
I feel like we created something truly beautiful, and I can’t wait to see the final results. I already want to work together again on new shoots, and I know my whole team feels the same way.
Thank you again for your talent, hard work and for helping bring this idea to life!