Helmut Newton. Rue Aubriot, Yves Saint Laurent, French Vogue, Paris, 1975
Photo Credit: The Helmut Newton Estate

This iconic Rue Aubriot image is a hallmark of Helmut Newton’s portfolio, part of a series that exemplifies his signature style of portraying female models as strong, commanding figures.

Newton’s model, Vibeke Knudsen, dons a sleek, Yves Saint Laurent trouser suit, her short hair adding to the image masculine feel. Captured under the atmospheric glow of streetlamps at night, reminiscent of Brassaï’s night shots, the scene unfolds on Rue Aubriot, where Newton’s apartment and studio were located.

Named after its setting, the image is a testament to Newton’s flair for blending polished elegance with a sense of ambiguity and provocation. His approach often involved staging high-fashion shoots in authentic settings, using natural lighting to lend a documentary feel to his work. This image remains a pivotal piece in the history of fashion photography, showcasing Newton’s unique ability to marry haute couture with a narrative-driven, provocative approach.

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