Bill Cunningham Was There

Bill Cunningham Was There by Steven Stolman and John Kurdewan offers a captivating look at Bill Cunningham— the iconic New York Times photographer renowned for chronicling society and fashion. The book celebrates the people, style, and vibrant happenings of New York and beyond, with a specific focus on the lively events of spring and summer.

Bill Cunningham (1929-2016) had a keen appreciation for the colours, carefree beauty, and escapism of spring outings and summer parties. As both a photographer and a perceptive fashion documentarian, his camera captured the showstopping hats and dresses worn by society ladies at the annual Central Park Conservancy luncheons, the stunning gowns gracing the dance floors of tented galas in Newport and the Hamptons, and the authentic vintage outfits flaunted by young attendees at summertime jazz and swing-dance festivals.

For decades, Cunningham's two weekly columns in the Times were essential reading for fashion enthusiasts, offering not only a thorough chronicle of contemporary looks but also an insider's perspective on the glamorous parties and philanthropic events that are part of the social scene. This book is a heartfelt tribute to Cunningham's genius for capturing magical moments with extraordinary style, celebrating one of photojournalism's greatest legends.