Must-Watch Fashion Documentaries

Fashion is not just about clothes. It is a way of expression, a reflection of society, and an ever-evolving art form. And what better way to dive into the world of fashion than through documentaries? From the glamour and drama of the runway to the behind-the-scenes chaos of the fashion industry, these must-watch fashion documentaries will give you a glimpse into the fascinating world of style, design, and creativity.

The September Issue

Released in 2009, ‘The September Issue’ is a must-watch for any fashion enthusiast. It takes you behind the scenes of Vogue Magazine’s most important edition of the year – the September issue. Directed by R.J. Cutler, the documentary follows Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour and her team as they work to put together the biggest and most highly-anticipated issue of the year. The film provides a rare and intimate look into the fashion industry’s inner workings and the creative vision behind one of the world’s most prestigious fashion magazines.

McQueen

If you want to understand the genius and complexity of the late fashion designer Alexander McQueen, ‘McQueen’ is the documentary for you. Directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, the film tells the story of McQueen’s rise to fame in the ’90s and his journey as a designer. It is a powerful and emotional tribute to the designer’s incredible talent, personal struggles, and tragic death. The film features interviews with McQueen’s closest friends, family, and collaborators, providing a deeper insight into the man behind the fashion label.

The First Monday in May

Every year, on the first Monday in May, the Met Gala takes place, marking the opening of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s fashion exhibition. ‘The First Monday in May’ follows the creation of the 2015 Met Gala and its accompanying exhibition – ‘China: Through the Looking Glass.’ With behind-the-scenes footage of the gala’s preparations, interviews with industry insiders, and a glimpse into the world of high fashion, this documentary offers an inside look at one of the biggest fashion events of the year.

Iris

Directed by the late Albert Maysles, ‘Iris’ is a documentary that celebrates the life and career of fashion icon Iris Apfel. At 97 years old, Apfel is still an influential figure in the fashion world, known for her bold and unique sense of style. The film follows Apfel as she travels around the world for her exhibitions and fashion collaborations, providing a fascinating and inspiring look into her life, work, and personal style.

Dior and I

Dior is a well-known and iconic fashion house, and ‘Dior and I’ gives a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the brand’s first collection under creative director Raf Simons. Directed by Frédéric Tcheng, the documentary follows Simons as he takes on the daunting task of creating his debut Dior collection. With interviews with Simons, Dior staff, and celebrities, the film offers an intimate look into the design process and the pressure of creating a fashion collection for one of the biggest luxury brands in the world.

Franca: Chaos and Creation

Franca Sozzani was the editor-in-chief of Vogue Italia for over 28 years and was known for pushing boundaries and challenging conventional standards of beauty in the fashion industry. ‘Franca: Chaos and Creation’ is a tribute to her work and legacy, exploring her impact on fashion and her role in shaping the industry. Directed by her son, Francesco Carrozzini, the documentary offers a personal and intimate look into Sozzani’s life, her creative process, and her unwavering dedication to her work.

These fashion documentaries are a must-watch for any fashion lover. They offer a deeper understanding of the industry, the creative minds behind it, and the impact of fashion on society. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and let these documentaries take you on a journey through the fascinating world of fashion.