6 Must-Watch Fashion Films to Inspire Your Style

As Anna Wintour, the iconic editor-in-chief of American Vogue, once said, “You either know fashion or you make it. There’s no in-between.” Fashion is an ever-present force in our lives, touching each of us in various ways. It’s a multifaceted world that encompasses thousands of brilliant individuals, millions of innovative ideas, and countless groundbreaking creations. This curated list of 6 fashion films will help you delve deeper into this captivating industry and introduce you to the people who have significantly shaped its evolution.

Yves Saint Laurent (2014)

The life of Yves Henri Donat Mathieu Saint Laurent is a tale of both extraordinary creativity and profound struggle. Saint Laurent was a pioneer in the fashion industry, introducing the unisex style and empowering women to wear what they please. However, behind his groundbreaking work lay a tumultuous personal life marked by mental health issues, troubled relationships, and substance abuse. This film explores Saint Laurent’s life from his early days at the House of Dior in the 1950s to his eventual demise, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the Yves Saint Laurent brand and a fresh perspective on his iconic creations.

Coco Before Chanel (2009)

Coco Chanel, a name synonymous with fashion revolution, transformed the industry with her innovative approach and experiments. The film “Coco Before Chanel” takes us back to the early life of Gabrielle Chanel, an orphanage-raised girl working as a seamstress by day and performing as Coco in a small cabaret by night. Her life takes a dramatic turn when Baron Étienne Balsan discovers her and takes her to Paris. The movie delves into Chanel’s journey to becoming a world-renowned fashion designer and the stories behind her legendary creations. The film stars the talented French actress Audrey Tautou, known for her role in “Amélie.”

The September Issue (2009)

Glossy magazines have always been and will continue to be an integral part of the fashion industry. This film offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the September 2007 issue of American Vogue, the largest issue in the magazine’s history. Viewers get a glimpse into the meticulous work of the editorial team and are introduced to the people behind the scenes, with a particular focus on the incomparable Anna Wintour. The film highlights Wintour’s immense contribution to the fashion industry through her dedicated work on this monumental issue.

The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

This cinematic gem introduces us to Andy Sachs, an ordinary and unassuming young woman who lands a job as the second assistant to Miranda Priestly, the formidable editor-in-chief of the fashion magazine “Runway.” Andy, who knows little about the fashion world, is eager to prove herself and show her capabilities. Unlike her colleagues, she has no interest in the fashion industry and has never even read “Runway.” However, under the watchful eye of the demanding and powerful Miranda Priestly, Andy gradually transforms. While the film may not depict the actual workings of a fashion magazine, it captures the unique atmosphere of the glossy fashion world that many dream of experiencing. The movie stars the brilliant actresses Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, making it a must-watch.

The Dressmaker (2015)

Set in the small Australian town of Dungatar, this film tells the story of the stunning blonde Myrtle “Tilly” Dunnage, who returns to her hometown after years of traveling Europe and working in the fashion industry. The townsfolk are initially hostile towards her, but Tilly gradually wins them over with her unique dressmaking skills. The film is filled with mysteries that unfold throughout the plot, keeping viewers engaged and intrigued. The stellar cast includes the incomparable Kate Winslet and the beloved Liam Hemsworth, making this movie a true cinematic delight.

Dior and I (2014)

“Dior and I” is a captivating documentary that offers an intimate look into the world of haute couture through the lens of the House of Dior. The film follows the journey of Raf Simons, the newly appointed artistic director, as he prepares for his first haute couture collection. Viewers are granted unprecedented access to the inner workings of the fashion house, witnessing the meticulous craftsmanship, creativity, and dedication that go into creating each piece. The documentary beautifully captures the essence of Dior’s legacy and the pressures of upholding its prestigious reputation. For more information on the film and its impact, you can visit the official Dior website.