Long before I picked up a camera, Bill Cunningham was out in the streets capturing some of the first ever street style for the New York Times, in which he worked for nearly 40 years. If you are into fashion now, you most likely appreciate street style photography from fashion weeks around the globe. Well at least I do, considering I shoot the street style for Fashion Moves Forward. I started shooting street style last September during my first ever trip to NYFW. A big reason why street style photographers are employed by big time magazines, is largely due to Bill Cunningham. He pioneered the role and idea of taking street style, which I believe to be one of the most important things about fashion. It portrays what is worn in real life on the streets. It shows personal style that is curated by a certain individual. Bill saw the art in that, and embraced it in the best way possible. Bill has influenced me and many others along his lifetime and career. Today we lost Bill Cunningham, he was 87 years old.

“The best fashion show is definitely on the streets. Always has been, always will be. ”

— Bill Cunningham

Tommy Ton (Street Style photographer) shared the last picture he took of Bill in this heartfelt Instagram post (below).

This was the last photo I took of Bill Cunningham this past January. I was so marvelled that after all these years he was still determined to get the shot in the pouring rain while all of the other photographers were taking refuge from the rain. I didn't think at the time it would be the last time I would get to see Bill in action but I knew I was in awe because after all these years, he was still in love with his passion. Bill Cunningham will forever be a true hero and inspiration to all of us. His gentle spirit and enthusiasm will forever be missed. RIP Bill 😇💙

See this Instagram photo by @tommyton * 4,463 likes

Rest in Peace Bill. We thank you for paving the way for us and many others. This next fashion week will be for you.

Remembering Bill Cunningham