Bill Cunningham is the original Street Style blogger. At 82 years old, this man is a legend in the fashion world for good reason. He spends his days riding around New York City on a bike (he’s on his 29th, the first 28 stolen), and nights at the most prestigious Manhattan evening events (not that this impresses him, he’ll never read a guest list or accept even water when he’s working – he’s there for the best causes and photographs whoever he wants). Nothing influences his creative eye.
Never without his camera, Bill bikes/walks and runs to capture emerging fashion trends that women and men are wearing. His weekly spreads in the New York Times Style section “On the Street” and “Evening Hours” are must-read columns for fashion-lovers everywhere. Always focusing on an emerging theme he’s noticed – Bill picks up on things before the fashion magazine and trend-forecasters leading the industry. Inevitably, in a matter or weeks or months, whatever he’s photographed is the next trend. He considers fashion to have three pillars: 1) the runway; 2) the street (what people are actually wearing); 3) evening (the fun of dressing up to be seen).
While the movie is a bit dark, Bill’s eccentric and shy to say the least – he admits to never having a romantic relationship in his life – it’s filled with inspiration for photographer, bloggers, writers, and fashion men and women everywhere. Clips of New York and Paris never disappoint, and despite leaving me torn between feeling sorry for Bill, and wanting to adopt him as my grandfather… I highly recommend seeing it for yourself. When the DVD is available, I’ll be buying it to add to my collection of iconic fashion movies: “The September Issue” and “Valentino The Last Emperor”.
Bill, it’s nice to know you’ve got us covered. You’re an inspiration. And well done Richard press!
