Fashion isn’t just about clothing—it’s a form of expression, an art form, and a reflection of society’s ever-evolving tastes and values. Let’s dive into the alluring realm of fashion with these iconic movies that showcase the industry’s glamour, creativity, and challenges. And what better way to immerse yourself in this captivating realm than through the lens of cinema?
In this curated listicle, we invite you to embark on a cinematic journey through the dazzling world of fashion across eras. We’ve handpicked 5 iconic movies that offer a glimpse into the industry’s inner workings, celebrate its luminaries, and explore the profound impact of style on our culture and collective imagination. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or just looking for some stylish inspiration, these films are a must-watch:
1. Clueless
While not recent, “Clueless” remains a timeless classic that introduced audiences to the fabulous world of Cher Horowitz and her high school fashion adventures. Even though the film’s theme does not revolve strictly around fashion, this coming-of-age film dives into ’90s nostalgia and witnesses the birth of some iconic trends such as plaid skirts. Cher’s and Dion’s complimentary outfits play on the traditional school uniform ultimately sparking a trend that gained momentum. Cher’s aesthetic was a big departure from the grudge trend of the ‘90s.
2. The Devil Wears Prada
Originally a novel by Lauren Weisberger, The Devil Wears Prada, a 2006 film directed by David Frankel, stars fashion icon Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway. This film follows the journey of a young assistant working for the assertive and demanding editor of a prestigious fashion magazine. Despite the film being nearly two decades old, numerous fashion styles showcased within it continue to resonate and remain relevant in contemporary times. Intense personalities and incredibly fashionable outfits shape the film, however, you will also get a sense of what it is like to work within this industry for anyone interested and its demands.
3. Sex and The City
The 2008 film highlights several iconic fashion moments, ranging from Carrie’s beautiful closet montage to her Vivienne Westwood wedding dress, to the girl’s outfits for New York Fashion Week. The girls bring forth a unique and alluring sense of style showcasing many statement pieces. In a magazine spread, Carrie showcases stunning gowns by Dior, Oscar, Vera and Lacroix.
4. The September Issue
Step behind the scenes of Vogue magazine’s famous September issue. This documentary provides an intimate look at the creative process and the dynamic personalities shaping the iconic fashion magazine. Directed by R.J. Cutler, the film primarily focuses on Anna Wintour, the legendary editor-in-chief of Vogue, and her team as they work on putting together this highly anticipated and iconic edition.
5. Yves Saint Laurent
A biographical drama which explores the life and career of legendary French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, analyses the highs and lows of his journey, from founding his own fashion house to becoming a global icon. Yves Saint Laurent is known for his revolutionary contributions to fashion. The film highlights some of his groundbreaking designs, such as the tuxedo jacket for women and the Mondrian-inspired shift dress.