From Runway to Reel: 10 Movies with Fashion at Their Heart
For those of you who live and breathe fashion, I have curated a list of films where style isn't just a side note – it's the soul of the story. These movies do not just showcase stunning outfits; they delve into the world of fashion, exploring its allure, its challenges, and its impact. They remind us that fashion is not just about clothing, but a form of art and self-expression. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be inspired by these ten cinematic tributes to the world of haute couture, street style, and everything in between. Whether you're a seasoned fashionista or just love a beautifully crafted film, these movies are sure to captivate and inspire your sartorial senses.
Funny Face (1957 ) is a romantic film featuring Audrey Hepburn as Jo Stockton, a bookstore clerk who becomes a fashion model. The plot revolves around Maggie Prescott (Kay Thompson), a fashion magazine editor who wants to feature a model that represents both beauty and intellect. Jo takes this opportunity to meet her philosophical idol in Paris, but ends up falling for the head photographer, Dick Avery (Fred Astaire). Set in Paris, this film pays homage to the fashion industry through its story and musical numbers. It's available on Amazon Prime and is directed by Stanley Donen, produced by Roger Edens, and written by Leonard Gershe.
Blow-Up (1966) is a British-Italian thriller about a fashion photographer, Thomas (David Hemmings), who suspects he has caught a murder on film. After photographing in a park, he discovers a suspicious image that could be a gun. The mystery deepens when the woman in the photo, Jane (Vanessa Redgrave), demands the pictures. The film, directed by Michelangelo Antonioni and produced by Carlo Ponti, also stars Sarah Miles, John Castle, and Jane Birkin. The screenplay was crafted by Antonioni himself, along with Tonino Guerra, Edward Bond, and Julio Cortázar. The film is available on Amazon Prime and AppleTV.
Mahogany (1975) is a film starring the legendary Diana Ross. Not only did she deliver a powerful performance as Tracy Chambers, but she also served as the executive producer. The film follows Tracy, a young African-American woman from Chicago, who dreams big and becomes a renowned fashion model and designer in Rome. "Mahogany," directed by Berry Gordy and written by John Byrum and Bob Merrill, showcases ambition, identity, love, and the sacrifices made for dreams. The unforgettable soundtrack features the hit single, "Do You Know Where You're Going To," by Diana Ross. If you're looking for a film with both style and substance, "Mahogany" is definitely worth a watch. It's available on Netflix.
Zoolander (2001), starring Ben Stiller as the naive fashion model, Derek Zoolander, is a must-watch for any fashion enthusiast. Not only does Stiller lead the cast, he also directs and co-writes this hilarious satire of the fashion industry with John Hamburg and Drake Sather. The storyline revolves around Zoolander's inadvertent involvement in a plot to assassinate the Prime Minister of Malaysia, leading to a series of comedic events. With its sharp humor and insightful social commentary, "Zoolander" offers a laugh-out-loud critique of the fashion industry. A sequel, "Zoolander 2," was released in 2016, but it didn't fare well and failed to measure up to the original. For those interested in viewing the original, it's available on streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu.
The Devil Wears Prada (2006) is a compelling look into the ruthless fashion industry. Directed by David Frankel and based on Lauren Weisberger's novel, the film tracks the journey of Andy Sachs, a young journalist portrayed by Anne Hathaway, who lands a job as an assistant to the formidable editor-in-chief, Miranda Priestly, brilliantly played by Meryl Streep. As she navigates the high-pressure world of a prestigious fashion magazine, Andy grapples with balancing her personal values and her demanding boss's expectations. With excellent performances, sharp script, and stunning fashion, "The Devil Wears Prada" is available for streaming on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu.
Coco Before Chanel (2009), directed by Anne Fontaine, is a captivating biographical drama that explores the beginnings of the iconic fashion designer, Coco Chanel. The film charts Chanel's rise from humble beginnings to becoming a pioneering force in the fashion world. Audrey Tautou delivers a riveting performance as Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel, showcasing her determination to defy societal norms and transform women's fashion with her bold, innovative designs. Through a moving script by Anne Fontaine and Camille Fontaine, "Coco Before Chanel" stands as a story of resilience, ambition, and relentless creativity. This cinematic masterpiece can be watched on platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max.
Bill Cunningham: New York (2010) is a captivating documentary that provides an intimate portrait of the legendary New York Times fashion photographer, Bill Cunningham. Directed by Richard Press and produced by Philip Gefter, the film pays tribute to Cunningham's unique perspective on fashion and his profound influence on the industry. Known for his unique approach to fashion documentation, Cunningham spent decades capturing photos of celebrities and ordinary New Yorkers alike, all distinguished by their intriguing attire. The comprehensive profile of Cunningham's work features conversations with friends and frequent subjects, including Tom Wolfe, David Rockefeller, and Anna Wintour of Vogue magazine. The film can be streamed on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and Kanopy.
Yves Saint Laurent (2014), directed by Jalil Lespert and co-written with Jacques Fieschi, is a French biographical drama set during the height of the iconic fashion designer's career. The film beautifully showcases Yves Saint Laurent's remarkable talent and influential designs. You can immerse yourself in the world of fashion by streaming "Yves Saint Laurent" on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Tubi.
Phantom Thread (2017) transports viewers to 1950s post-war London, centering around renowned dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock, portrayed by Daniel Day-Lewis, and his relationship with his sister Cyril, played by Lesley Manville. Directed and written by Paul Thomas Anderson, "Phantom Thread" explores the complex interplay between obsession, creativity, and the fashion industry. This mesmerizing tale can be streamed on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu.
House of Gucci (2021) is a gripping film based on the true events that led to the downfall of the Gucci fashion empire. Directed by Ridley Scott and written by Roberto Bentivegna, the film features an ensemble cast. Lady Gaga portrays Patrizia Reggiani, the ex-wife of Maurizio Gucci, played by Adam Driver. The film also stars Al Pacino as Aldo Gucci, Jeremy Irons as Rodolfo Gucci, and Jared Leto as Paolo Gucci. Other notable performances include Salma Hayek and Jack Huston. This star-studded film provides a compelling portrayal of the murder of Maurizio Gucci, orchestrated by Patrizia Reggiani. "House of Gucci" can be streamed on platforms like Amazon Prime Video.
