A Visual Journey Through Fashion and Culture

Bill Cunningham: On the Street: Five Decades of Iconic Photography offers a compelling look at the intersection of fashion, culture and history through the lens of one of the most influential street photographers of our time. Published by Clarkson Potter in 2019, this 384-page visual anthology spans five decades, bringing together Bill Cunningham’s most famous work alongside never-before-seen photographs. More than just a collection of images, it’s a reflection of the cultural shifts that defined New York City and Paris from the 1970s to the 2010s. Fashion lovers, photography enthusiasts and cultural historians alike will find this an essential addition to any collection.

Capturing Culture Through Fashion: Bill Cunningham’s Legacy

More than just a fashion photographer, Bill Cunningham was a cultural anthropologist with a camera. He didn’t just photograph clothes, he captured the spirit of the people who wore them, making his work a chronicle of the social and cultural movements of his time.

From the 1970s – a decade of rebellion and experimentation – Cunningham‘s work evolved alongside the fashions and events that shaped society. His images documented critical moments such as the New York transit strike of the 1980s, the aftermath of 9/11, and the rise of selfie culture in the 2010s. Whether capturing celebrities at galas or the everyday attire of city workers, Cunningham’s lens has always reflected the humanity behind the clothes.

Key Features of The Book

The scope of the book is not limited to fashion – it delves into the cultural shifts that marked each era, making it a rich historical document. Here are the key features that make Bill Cunningham: On the Street a must-read:

  • Iconic photography: Spanning five decades, the book collects Cunningham’s most memorable images, from everyday street styles to high-fashion moments.
  • Chronicles of cultural change: Images highlight significant cultural moments, including New York’s emergence as a fashion capital, the post-9/11 cityscape, and the 2009 inauguration of President Obama.
  • Enriched Essays: Insightful essays from renowned fashion voices, including Cathy Horyn, Vanessa Friedman, and Anna Wintour, provide readers with a deeper understanding of Cunningham’s philosophy, work ethic, and lasting impact on fashion journalism.

Written by influential figures who knew Cunningham personally, these essays offer an intimate portrait of the man behind the camera, his quirks, and his tireless dedication to capturing life as it unfolds on the streets.

Cunningham’s Timeless Vision

A unique feature of this book is the inclusion of previously unpublished photographs interspersed with Cunningham’s most iconic work. His consistent approach to photography – focusing on joy, sorrow, celebration and transformation – makes his work timeless. Despite the passage of decades, Cunningham’s images feel relevant because of their focus on the human experience.

By blending the ordinary with the extraordinary, Cunningham’s photography transcends trends, capturing fashion as a reflection of identity, culture and history.

A Deeper Dive into Cunningham’s Life

The essays included in the book enhance the reader’s experience by offering intimate insights into Cunningham’s philosophy and work ethic. Anna Wintour famously said, “We all dress for Bill,” highlighting his influence within the fashion community. These writings give a fuller picture of Cunningham as a person – his quirks, his humility, and his passion for capturing life in its most authentic form.

For readers who enjoy exploring the lives of cultural icons, these essays offer a closer look at the man behind the camera.

A Tribute to a Fashion Visionary

“Bill Cunningham: On the Street” is more than a collection of photographs – it is a tribute to a visionary whose work has left an indelible mark on both fashion and photography. His legacy lives on in these images, which tell the story of a man who dedicated his life to capturing beauty in its most unexpected forms.

For anyone interested in fashion, photography or cultural history, this book offers an unparalleled insight into the world of street style. It’s a vibrant, thoughtful and expertly curated anthology that highlights not just fashion, but the people who wear it and the world they live in. Cunningham’s work invites us to see the world through his eyes – a place where every person, every outfit, every moment has a story worth telling.

In the words of Amy Fine Collins of Vanity Fair, “His voice and vision are alive in these pages. With each photograph, Cunningham reveals the soul of the cities he loved, ensuring that his influence on fashion and culture will endure for generations to come.”

Bill Cunningham: On the Street is available from Clarkson Potter and offers readers a timeless journey through five decades of style, culture and human connection.

Bill Cunningham: On the Street
Bill Cunningham: On the Street

About The Author: Bill Cunningham

Bill Cunningham (1929-2016) was an iconic American photographer and fashion journalist, best known for his nearly 40-year career with the New York Times. His famous “On the Street” column captured the essence of street style, documenting the unique fashion choices of everyday people and celebrities alike. Before turning to photography, Cunningham was a successful milliner in New York, designing hats under the label William J. His transition to photography in the late 1960s was sparked by a snapshot of Greta Garbo and marked a turning point in his career.

Cunningham’s approach to fashion was democratic, equally fascinated by designer looks and the creativity of everyday fashion. His work not only chronicled style, but also reflected cultural and social change over five decades. In 2008, he was awarded the Legion of Honour by the French Ministry of Culture. His modest nature kept him out of the spotlight, but his influence continues to inspire future generations of photographers and fashion enthusiasts.

Why You Need This Book

If you have a passion for fashion, photography or cultural history, Bill Cunningham: On the Street is essential reading. Here’s what makes this book stand out:

  • Fashion enthusiasts: Cunningham’s photographs capture the natural evolution of fashion, reflecting not only trends but the personalities behind them.
  • Photography lovers: His candid, unposed images are a masterclass in visual storytelling, showing how everyday life can be filled with beauty and creativity.
  • Cultural historians: Fashion is a lens through which to view social change, and Cunningham’s work captures pivotal moments in time, from 9/11 to the rise of selfie culture.

Reviews

Amy Fine Collins, a special correspondent for Vanity Fair, highlights the emotional impact of Bill Cunningham: On the Street, describing it as a powerful tribute that fills the void left by Cunningham’s absence. She emphasises how his voice and vision remain very much alive in the pages of the book, with the photographs still vibrant and relevant. Collins notes how the images reflect a “magical metropolis” where every person and even nature has an enchanting style, capturing the New York that people want to believe in.

Fashion legend André Leon Talley, contributing editor at Vogue, praises the book as the work of a “great anthropologist and fashion genius”. He reflects on Cunningham’s keen eye, noting how he has chronicled half a century of fashion through his expert lens. Talley describes the book as a “dazzling kaleidoscope” that celebrates how Cunningham found beauty in every corner of everyday life, from high-end fashion to the simplicity of street style.

Scott Schuman, creator of The Sartorialist, finds the book deeply inspiring, not only for the fashion and imagery it presents, but also for its celebration of Cunningham’s long-standing dedication to street style. Schuman admires the book’s ability to convey Cunningham’s passion and lifelong commitment to capturing fashion in its most authentic form.

These authoritative voices reflect the widespread admiration for Cunningham’s work, noting the timelessness, artistry and dedication that define Bill Cunningham: On the Street.

Bill Cunningham: On the Street
Bill Cunningham: On the Street

Where to Buy?

Celebrate the iconic street photography of Bill Cunningham, capturing the fashion and essence of New York City. Here’s where you can get your hands on a copy:

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Conclusion

“Bill Cunningham: On the Street” is not simply a collection of photographs, but rather a robust and powerful representation of the art of visual storytelling. Bill Cunningham’s work serves as a reflection of our shared history, a mirror to the ever-changing world of fashion and culture. This book offers readers the opportunity to observe the evolution of style over five remarkable decades, making it an indispensable contribution to the field of fashion literature. It’s a vibrant and colourful tapestry of beauty, a time machine that takes you seamlessly through the ages, and a heartfelt tribute to a visionary photographer whose work will continue to motivate and resonate for many years to come.

Publishing Information

Published by Clarkson Potter on 3 September 2019, Bill Cunningham: On the Street: Five Decades of Iconic Photography is a 384-page visual anthology that offers an unparalleled insight into the transformative power of street fashion. Available in a flexible bound edition, this carefully curated collection not only chronicles Cunningham’s unique photographic legacy, but also captures pivotal cultural moments over the course of five decades. A tribute to the legendary photographer’s ability to freeze fleeting moments in time, this book is an essential addition to personal libraries and academic archives alike.