MUSÉE 29 – EVOLUTION

Evolution explores the concepts of progress, transformation, growth, and advancement in an age when images are taking a dramatic shift in the role they play in our lives.

Book Review: Watching New York: Street Style from A to Z

Book Review: Watching New York: Street Style from A to Z

Johnny Cirillo, Watching New York: Street Style from A to Z

Written by Aundréa Verdi


In his new book "Watching New York: Street Style from A to Z," photographer Johnny Cirillo navigates the vibrant individuality of daily dress within the bustling streets of New York City. Dubbed "The People's Paparazzi,” Cirillo has cultivated a devoted following on social media platforms under the moniker @watchingnewyork, where he documents the unique ensembles of everyday New Yorkers. This book is an extension of his digital success, presenting a compilation of striking photographs that feature the city’s diverse residents and their sartorial prowess.

The book’s A-Z approach, reminiscent of a glamorous encyclopedia, leads us through a kaleidoscope of looks and personalities. From bold accessories that punctuate outfits to the exploration of animal print patterns, Cirillo depicts the nuances of New York's fashion landscape. Each page is part of a delightful visual journey, showcasing an array of outfits that range from the avant-garde to the effortlessly chic. But this book is special because it emphasizes the people behind the clothes, providing a fresh and intriguing perspective on street-style photography. 

Johnny Cirillo, Watching New York: Street Style from A to Z

Cirillo’s approach to street photography is akin to that of a cultural anthropologist, who captures not just clothing but also the originality that resonates with each outfit. Each image is a reminder that fashion is deeply personal—an outward reflection of inner passions and identities. Interviews and quotes are seamlessly woven throughout the book, giving a voice to those who populate his frames offering insights into their inspirations, aspirations, and fashion philosophies. These anecdotes add layers of meaning to the narrative, evolving the book into a dialogue between the photographer, his subjects, and the audience, fostering a relationship between fashion and humanity.

The book itself has as much character as those among its pages, and the thoughtful design of the book enhances its experience. The layouts are carefully crafted to complement Cirillo's work, allowing the clothes to shine. The typography, color palette, and overall aesthetic create a synergy between form and content.

Johnny Cirillo, Watching New York: Street Style from A to Z

Cirillo's candid photography is unobtrusive yet intimate. The images feel spontaneous as if we're catching a genuine moment in the neighborhoods of Brooklyn or Soho. One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its ability to encapsulate the essence of New York City itself—the palpable energy, the relentless pace, and the spirit of its inhabitants. However, perhaps the most compelling aspect of "Watching New York" is its celebration of authenticity. In an age where social media often perpetuates a curated facade of perfection, Cirillo's photographs are a refreshing antidote—a glimpse into unfiltered reality. Whether it's a vintage piece or an original item that the wearer crafted themselves, each garment becomes a storyteller.

"Watching New York: Street Style from A to Z." is a triumph of style and substance. Johnny Cirillo's masterful blend of photography and human connection transforms his images into a captivating analysis of identity, self-expression, and inspiration. 

Johnny Cirillo, Watching New York: Street Style from A to Z

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