Total Whimsy: Sydney Sweeney’s Sixties Fairytale Editorial
How W Magazine blended princess dreams, ’60s nostalgia, and Madonna-inspired edge.
If you’ve been following me, you know I’m usually side-eyeing those blank studio backdrops (read the linked post below to hear more about that)—but W Magazine and Sydney Sweeney may just be my first exception. Written by Lynn Hirschberg, with photographs by Carlijn Jacobs and styled by Allia Alliata di Montereale, this shoot checked every box on my “aesthetic” wish list—from fairytale-inspired styling to ’60s-meets-Madonna vibes.
Little Red Riding Hood in McQueen
First up, Sweeney steps straight out of a storybook in Alexander McQueen. Think of a modern Red Riding Hood. The different textures are absolutely impeccable. I adore this crochet piece under the cape. And paired with the lace tights? Perfection.
Sleeping Beauty in Marc Jacobs
Just when I thought it couldn’t get more whimsical, here comes Sleeping Beauty. I am living for this Marc Jacobs dress in my favorite pale pink. She legit looks like a cupcake…and I’m eating it up! And the black shoes are the cherry on top. I love the shape of that toe. This look is utterly adorable and embodies everything I want in a dreamy summer editorial.
Madame X Biker Chic
After all the cuteness, the shoot takes a hard left into Madonna vibes. The leather jacket and shorts are fabulous. But what’s really taking it for me is the leather hat and smokey eye makeup. It’s giving very 90s Madonna.
Flower Child (’60s Forever)
Cue my favorite era: the Sixties. They titled this look “Flower Child.” I adore the billowy sleeves, mod flower pattern, and teased hair. I’m seriously so happy that teased hair is having a comeback—I’ve never wished that I had long hair more.
The Haughty Lady in Fendi, Miu Miu, and Manolos
This Fendi trench, Miu Miu bag, and green Manolos pairing is like the holy trinity of “spring 2025.” The green Manolo’s could arguably feel out of place but I am absolutely here for it. I think it adds that touch of whimsy that I’ve been talking about. It’s so chic.
Candyland Nostalgia
This Duran Lantink bra top paired with Prada shorts, Marc Jacobs shoes, and candy-cane-esque tights is phenomenal. This look feels so nostalgic. Almost like she’s dressed up as Mr. Mint from Candyland. It’s too good!!!
Sporty Spice Meets Balenciaga
if I’m being honest, this sporty-chic Balenciaga look isn’t my favorite. It’s definitely a serve but falls short to the others in my opinion. She’s wearing a Balenciaga dress and shoes, Thistles sunglasses, and Falke thigh-highs.
A 60s Prom Queen
This look—the cover look—is my favorite of the whole thing. I genuinely feel like the stylist through my Pinterest board into a machine and it spat this look out. Just kidding…but, I’m literally obsessed with it. It’s very Priscilla Presley meets Madonna and anyone who knows me knows that those two are easily some of my biggest inspirations. The bullet bra and teased hair are fantastic—and lord knows I’m a sucker for a good wing and blue eyeshadow.
I’m obsessed with how this editorial channels everything I love right now: from fairytale princess energy to vintage-inspired bikers. I can’t wait to snag a copy of W to add to my collection and see these looks in print.