17+ Best Movies About Fashion (Top Picks)

Fashion has always been a captivating and influential industry, and it has found its way into the world of cinema.

Over the years, numerous movies have explored the glamorous and sometimes cutthroat world of fashion, showcasing the creativity, drama, and passion that goes into creating iconic looks.

From biopics to fictional tales, these movies have not only entertained audiences but also provided valuable insights into the fashion industry.

Here are some movies that are centered around the theme of fashion, along with their release years:

“The Devil Wears Prada” (2006)

“Coco Before Chanel” (2009)

“Phantom Thread” (2017)

“Yves Saint Laurent” (2014)

“Dior and I” (2014)

“The September Issue” (2009)

“Bill Cunningham New York” (2010)

“Valentino: The Last Emperor” (2008)

“McQueen” (2018)

“Blow-Up” (1966)

“Funny Face” (1957)

“Zoolander” (2001)

“Confessions of a Shopaholic” (2009)

“Pret-a-Porter” (1994)

“Unzipped” (1995)

“The Neon Demon” (2016)

“House of Gucci” (2021)

These movies span various genres and styles, but all have a strong connection to the world of fashion.

Below we’ll look at some of the best movies about fashion that have left a lasting impact on both fashion enthusiasts and movie fans.

Table of Contents

The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

Based on the novel by Lauren Weisberger, “The Devil Wears Prada” is a must-watch for anyone interested in the fashion industry.

The movie follows the story of Andy Sachs, a young aspiring journalist who lands a job as an assistant to Miranda Priestly, the powerful and demanding editor-in-chief of a prestigious fashion magazine.

As Andy navigates her way through the high-pressure world of fashion, she learns valuable lessons about dedication, hard work, and the sacrifices required to succeed in the industry.

The Devil Wears Prada not only offers a glimpse into the glamorous side of fashion but also sheds light on the challenges faced by those working behind the scenes.

The movie showcases the intense competition, long hours, and high expectations that are often associated with the fashion industry.

It also highlights the importance of personal style and self-expression, as Andy undergoes a transformation throughout the film.

Coco Before Chanel (2009)

“Coco Before Chanel” is a biographical drama that delves into the life of one of the most influential fashion designers of all time, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel.

The movie explores Coco’s journey from her humble beginnings as an orphan to becoming a fashion icon.

It provides a fascinating look at her determination, creativity, and rebellious spirit, which revolutionized the fashion industry.

The film showcases Coco’s unique approach to fashion, emphasizing simplicity, comfort, and elegance.

It highlights her groundbreaking designs, such as the little black dress and the Chanel suit, which continue to be timeless classics.

“Coco Before Chanel” not only celebrates Coco’s contributions to fashion but also offers a glimpse into the societal constraints and gender norms she had to overcome to achieve success.

Phantom Thread (2017)

Phantom Thread” is a period drama set in 1950s London and follows the story of renowned dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock and his muse, Alma.

The movie explores the complex relationship between the two characters and delves into the obsessive nature of the fashion industry.

It offers a dark and intriguing portrayal of the creative process and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of artistic perfection.

The film beautifully captures the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating couture garments.

It showcases the meticulous attention to detail, the hours spent on fittings, and the transformative power of fashion.

“Phantom Thread” also explores the emotional toll that the fashion industry can take on individuals, as Reynolds and Alma navigate their complicated relationship amidst the pressures of their respective roles.

Valentino: The Last Emperor (2008)

“Valentino: The Last Emperor” is a documentary that provides an intimate look into the life and career of legendary fashion designer Valentino Garavani.

The film follows Valentino and his partner, Giancarlo Giammetti, during the final two years of Valentino’s career, leading up to his extravagant farewell show in Rome.

The documentary offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of haute couture, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into creating Valentino’s iconic designs.

It also explores the challenges faced by Valentino and his team in an ever-changing fashion landscape.

“Valentino: The Last Emperor” is a testament to Valentino’s enduring legacy and his impact on the fashion industry.

The September Issue (2009)

“The September Issue” is a documentary that takes viewers inside the offices of Vogue magazine during the production of their highly anticipated September issue, which is considered the most important issue of the year.

The film provides an in-depth look at the creative process behind the magazine, as well as the dynamic between the editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour, and her team.

The documentary offers valuable insights into the fashion publishing industry, showcasing the immense pressure and attention to detail required to produce a successful fashion magazine.

It also highlights the influence of Anna Wintour, known for her iconic style and strong opinions.

“The September Issue” is a fascinating exploration of the intersection between fashion, beauty, media, and art.

FAQs – Best Movies About Fashion

1. Are these movies based on real-life fashion designers?

Yes, some of the movies mentioned, such as “Coco Before Chanel” and “Valentino: The Last Emperor,” are based on the lives and careers of real-life fashion designers.

2. Do these movies accurately portray the fashion industry?

While these movies provide valuable insights into the fashion industry, it’s important to remember that they are works of fiction or interpretations of real events.

They may not capture every aspect of the industry, but they offer a glimpse into its glamour, challenges, and creative process.

3. Are these movies suitable for fashion enthusiasts?

Absolutely! These movies are highly recommended for fashion enthusiasts as they provide a deeper understanding of the industry, its history, and the creative minds behind iconic designs.

4. Can these movies inspire someone to pursue a career in fashion?

Yes, these movies can be highly inspiring for individuals interested in pursuing a career in fashion.

They showcase the passion, dedication, and hard work required to succeed in the industry.

5. Are there any other notable movies about fashion?

Yes, there are many other notable movies about fashion, such as “Funny Face,” “Zoolander,” “The Great Gatsby,” and “Yves Saint Laurent.” Each offers a unique perspective on the fashion world.

6. Do these movies focus only on high fashion?

While high fashion is a prominent theme in many of these movies, they also explore other aspects of the fashion industry, such as fashion magazines, street style, and the societal impact of fashion.

7. Are these movies suitable for individuals who are not interested in fashion?

Yes, these movies can be enjoyed by individuals who are not necessarily interested in fashion.

They offer compelling stories, well-developed characters, and insights into various aspects of the human experience.

8. Can these movies be educational for fashion students?

Yes, these movies can be highly educational for fashion students.

They provide a visual representation of the industry, its history, and the creative process, which can complement theoretical knowledge.

9. Are there any documentaries about specific fashion trends or movements?

Yes, there are several documentaries that focus on specific fashion trends or movements, such as “The True Cost” (fast fashion), “Dior and I” (the making of a collection), and “The First Monday in May” (the intersection of fashion and art).

10. Do these movies showcase diversity in the fashion industry?

While the fashion industry has historically struggled with diversity, some of these movies do address the issue and showcase the experiences of individuals from diverse backgrounds.

However, there is still progress to be made in terms of representation.

11. Can these movies be considered as a form of escapism?

Yes, these movies can serve as a form of escapism, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the glamorous and creative world of fashion.

12. Are there any fashion documentaries that focus on sustainability?

Yes, there are several fashion documentaries that shed light on sustainability in the industry, such as “The True Cost” and “RiverBlue.”

These documentaries explore the environmental and social impact of fast fashion.

13. Do these movies showcase the business side of the fashion industry?

While the focus of these movies is primarily on the creative aspects of the fashion industry, some do touch upon the business side, such as the pressures of meeting deadlines, managing budgets, and navigating the competitive landscape.

14. Can these movies be considered as a source of fashion inspiration?

Absolutely! These movies are a great source of fashion inspiration, showcasing iconic designs, unique styles, and the transformative power of clothing.

15. Are there any fashion movies suitable for a younger audience?

While some fashion movies may contain mature themes or language, there are also movies suitable for a younger audience, such as “The Princess Diaries” and “Confessions of a Shopaholic,” which offer a lighthearted take on fashion.

Summary – Best Movies About Fashion

The world of fashion has always been a source of inspiration and fascination, and movies have successfully captured its essence on the big screen.

From exploring the glamorous side of the industry to shedding light on the challenges faced by those working behind the scenes, these movies provide valuable insights into the world of fashion.

Whether it’s through biographical dramas or fictional tales, these films celebrate creativity, passion, and the transformative power of fashion.

Some of the best movies about fashion include “The Devil Wears Prada,” which offers a glimpse into the high-pressure world of fashion magazines, and “Coco Before Chanel,” which delves into the life of the iconic designer Coco Chanel.

“Phantom Thread” provides a dark and intriguing portrayal of the fashion industry, while “Valentino: The Last Emperor” offers an intimate look into the career of legendary designer Valentino Garavani.

Lastly, “The September Issue” takes viewers behind the scenes of Vogue magazine, showcasing the creative process behind the production of their most important issue.

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