“Excuse me, would you mind if I take your photograph?” It’s hard to think of a higher honour in the fashion world than hearing these words from Scott Schuman, better known as The Sartorialist. He has gained notoriety by roaming the streets of the world’s fashion capitals taking photographs of ordinary people with extraordinary style. His blog is simple: a series of photos with little commentary, and yet it boasts 14 million page views each month from people who seek the considerable style insight that his photography conveys.
After several years of capturing candid moments in fashion around the world, Schuman published The Sartorialist: Closer, an anthology of some of his best photographs displayed among 500 glossy pages. The book became an instant success, selling over 100,000 copies, many of which have been flying off the shelves of Vancouver fashion boutique Secret Location. Their stylish space provided the perfect backdrop to welcome The Sartorialist for his inaugural trip to Vancouver with an intimate cocktail reception.
After living vicariously through his lens for so long, a select list of Secret Location’s VIP clients, partners and media were thrilled to meet Schuman in person. Guests arrived armed with carefully planned outfits, a copy of Closer, and, of course, a camera, as they got an opportunity to turn their own lens on one of fashion’s most Notable photographers. Despite a hectic day with a book signing lineup that snaked the length of Water Street, Schuman happily mixed and mingled with his fans, enjoying champagne and delicious bites from Secret Location’s Tasting Bar. A redeye back to New York awaited him later that evening, though his first taste of Vancouver was enough for him to proclaim that he will be back again very soon.
