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For lovers of design and documentary fans alike, there is nothing quite like an artistic glimpse into the world of some of the most daring cultural minds. Where creativity meets commerce and artistry and trends collide, the best fashion documentaries offer a rare glimpse behind the luxurious curtains.

These touching, inspiring, thought-provoking films delve deep into the stories, struggles, and triumphs of the industry’s most influential figures. From the riveting biographies of iconic designers to the meticulous craftsmanship behind couture collections, these fashion documentaries capture the essence of groundbreaking style through a compelling lens.

Cozy up with culture and discover your next favorite fashion film!

The Best Fashion Documentaries for Design Lovers

“Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel” (2011)

A delve into the life and influence of the woman who made Vogue the iconic fashion authority that it is today. Diana Vreeland’s cultural influence cannot be overstated. The film highlights her unique vision, cultural foresight, ability to push boundaries, and her creation of fantastical worlds within the pages of fashion magazines. From fashion editor at Harper’s Bazaar, editor-in-chief of Vogue, and later a special consultant at the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Vreeland brought her bold, extravagant taste to the world. She was known for her keen eye on culture, promoting diversity, and celebrating individuality.

The vibrant film paints a portrait of a visionary woman through interviews with friends and fellow fashion world giants. Beyond the professional, the documentary also offers us a glimpse into her personal life—from her upbringing in Paris to New York high society; it tells the story of one of the most influential figures in the history of fashion. Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel is a must-see for those interested in fashion history and the evolution of modern editorial work.

“L’Amour Fou” (2010)

This documentary not only explores the life and legacy of Yves Saint Laurent but also reveals a compelling love story. At the heart of the film is the relationship between Saint Laurent and Bergé, partners in business and life. The film examines how the highs and lows of their personal relationship influenced Saint Laurent’s creative output. It’s a powerful exploration of the man who made groundbreaking contributions to fashion, including the introduction of the tuxedo suit for women, “Le Smoking.”

The documentary is framed by the 2009 auction of the couple’s extensive art collection, which included works by Picasso, Matisse, and Mondrian. The sale was held after Saint Laurent’s death in 2008 and serves as a poignant underscore of the narrative, signifying the end of an era.

“The Director: An Evolution in Three Acts” (2013)

For more than a decade, Frida Giannini was responsible for Gucci’s creative direction. The Director: An Evolution in Three Acts offers a behind-the-scenes look at her creative process. Thus providing an intimate look into how she conceptualizes and designs her iconic collections. Viewers will see her working on sketches, selecting fabrics, and overseeing fashion shows. So providing a close-up of the intricate work that goes into high fashion.

Lauded as one of the best fashion designer documentaries, the three-act structure of the film intends to mirror the different phases of Giannini’s evolution at Gucci. It’s a thoughtful exploration of what it takes to helm a global fashion brand, capturing both the glamorous and gritty aspects of the industry.

“Dior and I” (2014)

Dior and I offers an in-depth look at the creative process behind a haute couture collection centered on creative director Raf Simons. It chronicles Simons’ arrival at Dior in 2012 and the immense pressure he faced to craft a successful collection with only eight weeks to deliver. It features the collaboration of Simons and the skilled artisans at Dior, including the seamstresses who bring his designs to life.

The film emphasizes the savoir-faire, dedication, and meticulous attention to detail required by those who create fashion at the highest levels. It’s a rare glimpse into the world of haute couture and the people who dedicate their lives to the art form. Dior and I is a compelling watch for fashion enthusiasts and anyone invested in the creative process.

“Westwood: Punk. Icon. Activitst” (2018)

Who says punk can’t be high fashion? This thought-provoking documentary explores the life and career of British fashion designer Vivienne Westwood. Known for her pioneering role in the punk fashion movement of the ’70s and her enduring cultural legacy, Westwood is painted as a multifaceted figure who influenced more than just clothing with her unflinching cultural commentary.

The film explores how she and her then-partner Malcolm McLaren created the iconic punk style through their London boutique SEX and how this aesthetic challenged the status quo. Westwood: Punk. Icon. Activist. celebrates her contributions to fashion, her role in shaping punk culture, and her enduring commitment to activism.

“Anti-Fashion” (2012)

This hour-long film explores the concept of “anti-fashion” in the fashion world, focusing on how designers and movements have deliberately rejected mainstream fashion trends and conventions. The documentary takes a deep dive into alternative fashion, spotlighting designers, subcultures, and movements that challenge the norms of the industry.

Anti-Fashion features rare and archival footage, making it a true treat for any lovers of fashion history and culture.

“Franca: Chaos and Creation” (2016)

Dive into the French fashion scene of the 1980s—a pivotal period known for its dramatic transformation and the rise of fashion as a global cultural force. The documentary highlights the emergence of influential French designers like Jean-Paul Gaultier, Thierry Mugler, and Claude Montana, who pushed the boundaries of traditional fashion with their bold, innovative designs.

It reflects on how Paris, already known as a fashion capital, became a hub for experimentation and avant-garde aesthetics during this time. It also addresses how broader societal and political changes, including the rise of consumerism, pop culture, and the blending of fashion with art and entertainment, shaped the 1980s fashion scene in France.

“McQueen” (2018)

Any conversation about British fashion has to include the name “Alexander McQueen.” The late fashion designer was known for his innovative and often provocative designs. The film offers an emotional exploration of McQueen’s life and career, highlighting his renowned artistic genius and personal struggles.

McQueen stands out for its cinematic style, cutting high-fashion imagery with intimate, raw footage and interviews. It mirrors the designer’s own dramatic, evocative flair, crafting a portrait of a complicated man. The film shows how his mental health struggles influenced his creative work, illuminating the intensity of his emotional expressions and how they were stitched into his most beautiful collections.

“Manolo Blahnik: The Boy Who Made Shoes for Lizards” (2017)

With praises sung by the likes of Rihanna, Naomi Campbell, and Karlie Kloss, this must-watch explores the life and career of renowned Spanish shoe designer Manolo Blahnik. Celebrated for his iconic and luxurious footwear, it provides an in-depth look at Blahnik’s creative process and philosophy.

“Manolo Blahnik: The Boy Who Made Shoes for Lizards” tells the story of the celebrated designer’s journey to becoming a global fashion icon, including his upbringing in the Canary Islands and early artistic influences. It’s an engaging glimpse account of Manolo Blahnik’s life, career, and enduring artistic legacy.

“Marc Jacobs & Louis Vuitton” (2007)

This film provides an intimate look at the creative process of renowned designer Marc Jacobs during his time as the artistic director of Louis Vuitton. It captures the behind-the-scenes dynamics of Jacobs as he balances his responsibilities at his own eponymous brand and Louis Vuitton, one of the most iconic luxury brands in the world.

The documentary focuses on the contrast between Marc Jacobs’ more free-spirited, avant-garde approach to his own brand and the refinement and heritage of Louis Vuitton. It explores how he brings a fresh, modern perspective to the storied fashion house, blending traditional luxury with contemporary perspective.

“The Gospel according to André” (2017)

Back to Vogue, as high fashion always seems to go. The Gospel According to André traces the life and career of André Leon Talley, a prominent fashion icon and former creative director at a taste-making magazine. It tells the story of Talley’s impact on the industry, his unique personal style, and his journey from humble beginnings in the Jim Crow South to becoming a trailblazer in fashion journalism.

Through interviews with Talley himself, along with colleagues, friends, and fashion industry insiders, the film celebrates André Leon Talley’s life and achievements. Naturally, it touches on Talley’s experiences as a black creator in the predominantly white world of high fashion. The memorable film captures Talley’s unique vision, charisma, and tenacity, exploring the challenges and barriers he has faced and his role in tearing them down.

“Yohji Yamamoto Dressmaker” (2016)

It’s a joy to watch for more than fashion aficionados. Anyone with an eye for artistic movements, avant-garde design, and compelling storytelling will enjoy this visually captivating look at one of fashion’s most innovative designers. Behind-the-scenes glimpses of Yamamoto’s fashion shows, studio work, and interactions with his team reveal details of the design and production process. It’s an immersion into the effort and artistry involved in creating his collections.

Yohji Yamamoto Dressmaker highlights his dedication to craftsmanship and innovative use of materials. The viewer is treated to the entirety of the Japanese designer’s process, from sketches and fabric selection to the final unveiling of his collections. With footage of fashion shows, studio work, and interviews, this designer documentary paints a comprehensive portrait of Yamamoto’s world.

“Catwalk” (1995)

Catwalk offers a raw, behind-the-scenes look at the life of a runway model in the ’90s. It follows Christy Turlington through the preparation, castings, fittings, and shows during the Spring/Summer 1994 season. Viewers will enjoy appearances from Noami Campbell, Kate Moss, and more in this nostalgic glance back to a revolutionary decade of fashion.

“Valentino: The Last Emperor” (2008)

Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani has left an indelible mark on the industry with his luxurious, timeless creations. Valentino: The Last Emperor examines the top designer’s influential style and his iconic cultural status. Focusing on the period leading up to his retirement in 2008, it provides a detailed look at the preparation for his last major fashion show and the final collection he designed before stepping down.

For lovers of all things design, the film offers an affectionate portrayal of one of fashion’s most celebrated designers. It captures the glamour and grandeur of Valentino’s fashion shows, including the elaborate celebrations and events that marked the end of his career.

The Final Cut: Honorable Mentions

7 Days Out (2018) – A Netflix documentary series that explores the final preparation for high-profile events, including a Chanel fashion show. A must for Karl Lagerfeld lovers.

Dries (2017) – A look into the life and work of the renowned Belgian fashion designer Dries Van Noten.

Halston (2019) – The story of Roy Halston Frowick, better known simply as Halston, one of America’s most iconic fashion designers of the 20th century.

The September Issue (2009) – An inside look at the creation of the September 2007 issue of Vogue magazine, which at the time was the largest issue ever published.

Notebooks on Cities and Clothes (1989) – A contemplative exploration of fashion and urban life featuring the Japanese designer Yohji Yamamoto.

House of Cardin (2019) – An exploration of the mind of the genius Pierre Cardin, chronicling his life and designs. It’s truly original, as Mr.Cardin has guaranteed complete access to his archives and his empire.

Chiarra Ferragni Unposted (2019) – Chiara is one of the most powerful influencers of her generation. She reveals how the digital revolution has changed the business world, communication, and fashion through a portrait in which she’s the protagonist.

Wonder Boy (2019) – Directed and produced by Anissa Bonnefont, Wonder Boy retraces Balmain’s creative director Oliver Rousteing’s search for his birth parents. If you’re expecting a fashion designer documentary about his glittering paradise, you’re completely wrong.

Words by Bridget Kitson
Feature Image: Collage of Noted Documentary Covers

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