Hasta La Ideas

In many ways the 80s don’t seem that long ago, especially with the recent resurgence in 80s-style fashion. Yet a new book of photographs from 80s London by Johnny Stiletto reveals that in fact the city has changed dramatically since then…

Titled Vintage 80s, Stiletto’s book is a collection of photography taken on the street and on public transport (Francis Bacon on the Piccadilly Line is shown above) during the decade. Much has changed, in particular the design within the city: the book shows a far less branded London than today, with fashion and graphics that certainly speak of a different time.

Evening Standard newspaper sellers

An iconic billboard ad from the 80s

Among the scenes captured are shots of famous people and places: Mick Jagger walking down the street with his manager, and a photo through the window of Granita on Upper Street, Islington, the restaurant where Gordon Brown and Tony Blair made their infamous leadership pact later in the 90s.

Granita, Islington

Mick Jagger and his manager, Prince Rupert von Lowenstein

Al Capone’s car outside Sotheby’s, Bond Street

Elsewhere Stiletto captures the casual violence and despair that can be seen on London’s streets. Below is a shot of a scuffle in Knightsbridge Underground station, and an image of a well-dressed woman passed out in a doorway.

Man apprehended at Knightsbridge Underground Station

Woman on the street

But there are snatched moments of tenderness too, as well as lots of comedic scenes.

Couple on the tube at night

Well-dressed couple on the street

Clamped Citroen DS in front of Cyril Shire’s Trendsetter Salon. All images are © Johnny Stiletto.

Vintage 80s: London Street Photography by Johnny Stiletto is published this week by Frances Lincoln publishers, priced £14.99. More of Stiletto’s work can be viewed online at aliasjohnnystiletto.com.

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