Fashion has always adored strutting down the lane of cinema and Good Fashion Movies.
It’s where the opulence of haute couture meets the artistry of film, creating characters as iconic as their wardrobes.
From transformation stories to biopics of the greats, the silver screen offers a luxurious vista into the world of style. Therefore, behold my curated list of the top 10 movies about fashion, where you’ll find drama, passion, and a delightfully tasteful palette of cinematic extravagance.
Darling readers, imagine yourself perched in a plush velvet seat at an exclusive screening room in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The lights dim, and suddenly, you’re whisked away into a world where fabric and film intertwine like old friends at a society gala. Fashion and cinema have long been bedfellows in this grand affair, each elevating the other to dizzying heights of glamour and sophistication.
Picture Audrey Hepburn’s little black dress in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, an ensemble so iconic it practically deserves its star on Hollywood Boulevard.
Or consider Meryl Streep’s icy portrayal of Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada, a character whose wardrobe is as formidable as her wit. These films don’t just tell stories; they create visual feasts that linger in our collective memory like the scent of Chanel No. 5 on a silk scarf.
Fashion in film is not merely about clothes; it’s about transformation. It’s about watching Anne Hathaway evolve from a frumpy assistant to a fashion-forward editor right before our eyes. It’s about witnessing Tilda Swinton embodying David Bowie’s ethereal style in A Bigger Splash. These moments are not just sartorial choices; they are pivotal plot points that shape characters and narratives alike.
And let us not forget the biopics—those cinematic love letters to fashion’s luminaries. From Coco Chanel’s rise from orphaned seamstress to global icon to Yves Saint Laurent’s tumultuous journey through love and creativity, these films offer us an intimate glimpse into the lives behind the labels we so revere.
So, without further ado, I present to you my meticulously curated list of the top 10 most exquisite ‘good fashion movies.’ Prepare yourself for a journey through time and trends, where drama meets passion and every frame is a testament to cinematic extravagance. Fasten your seatbelts; it’s going to be a fabulously stylish ride.
1. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Ah, The Devil Wears Prada, where the click-clack of stilettos on the marble floors of Runway magazine is practically a symphony.
Picture it: the divine Meryl Streep, embodying Miranda Priestly, the ice-queen of fashion editors whose gaze alone could freeze a runway in its tracks.
She steers Anne Hathaway’s Andy into the tumultuous – yet oh-so-chic – world of high fashion with precision as sharp as her cheekbones. This film is a masterclass in style warfare and a beautiful ode to those who know the difference between cerulean and lapis.
From the moment Andy Sachs steps into the hallowed halls of Runway, we are treated to a visual feast that is nothing short of sartorial splendor. The transformation of Andy from a frumpy assistant to a fashion-forward protégé is not just a makeover; it’s an evolution that mirrors her journey through the labyrinthine corridors of power and prestige. Each outfit she dons becomes a statement, a piece of armor in the gladiatorial arena that is high fashion.
And then there’s Miranda Priestly, whose wardrobe alone could launch a thousand trends. Her icy demeanor is matched only by her impeccable taste, each ensemble meticulously curated to convey authority and elegance. The film’s costume designer, Patricia Field, deserves a standing ovation for creating looks that are both timeless and trendsetting. From Miranda’s pristine white coats to Andy’s chic Chanel boots, every piece tells a story.
But beyond the clothes, The Devil Wears Prada offers a glimpse into the soul-crushing demands and exhilarating highs of the fashion industry. It’s a world where one wrong choice can spell disaster, but one right move can catapult you to dizzying heights. The film captures this dichotomy with wit and sophistication, making it an essential watch for anyone who has ever dared to dream of couture.
In essence, The Devil Wears Prada is more than just a movie about fashion; it’s a love letter to those who live and breathe style. It’s for the dreamers who see beauty in every fabric swatch and for the warriors who navigate the treacherous waters of trends with grace and poise. So slip on your Manolos and prepare to be dazzled – this cinematic gem is as timeless as a little black dress.
2. Phantom Thread (2017)
Now, darlings, turn your gaze to the meticulous craft of Daniel Day-Lewis as Reynolds Woodcock, a visionary couturier in 1950s London.
Phantom Thread is a tapestry interwoven with artistic obsession and beguiling romance. It is as delicate as the lace adorning Woodcock’s gowns and as piercing as his comments. Watch it for the breathtaking fashion and the way it folds into the creases of a complex character study.
Imagine yourself in post-war London, where the air is thick with a sense of renewal and reinvention. The city is a burgeoning canvas for those who dare to dream in silk and satin. Enter Reynolds Woodcock, a man whose very name evokes an air of aristocratic precision. His atelier is not just a place of work; it is a sanctum where fabric becomes fantasy, and every stitch tells a story.
Woodcock’s creations are not merely garments; they are symphonies of style, each note meticulously composed to evoke emotion and admiration. His clientele, an elite cadre of society’s crème de la crème, flock to him like moths to a flame, seeking not just clothing but an experience—a transformation. And oh, how he delivers! With an eye sharper than any needle and hands that move with the grace of a ballet dancer, Woodcock conjures masterpieces that transcend mere fashion.
But beneath this veneer of sartorial splendor lies a man ensnared by his genius. His relationships are as intricate and fraught as the patterns he so meticulously drafts. Enter Alma, played with haunting elegance by Vicky Krieps—a muse who disrupts his carefully curated world. Their romance is a dance of dominance and submission, each step echoing with tension and tenderness.
The film itself is a visual feast, each frame dripping with opulence. The costumes are not just period-accurate; they are period-defining. From sumptuous evening gowns to impeccably tailored daywear, every piece serves as both armor and adornment for its wearer. The attention to detail is staggering—buttons hand-sewn with love (or perhaps obsession), seams that whisper secrets from another era.
Phantom Thread invites you to lose yourself in this world where fashion is both art and artifice, where every garment tells a story woven from threads of passion, power, and perilous beauty. It’s not just about watching; it’s about experiencing—feeling the weight of velvet against your skin, hearing the rustle of taffeta in hushed corridors, smelling the faintest hint of lavender sachets tucked into hidden pockets.
So sit back in your most luxurious loungewear—preferably something vintage—and let Phantom Thread transport you to an era where fashion was more than just clothing; it was an identity, an aspiration, an exquisite dance between creator and creation.
3. Cruella (2021)
Ah, Cruella, the underdog of fashion flicks.
Emma Stone serves a platter of punk-rock, deviously stylish drama in a fanciful exploration of the iconic Disney villain’s rise.
It’s a relentless fashion showdown set in the rebellious heart of 1970s London, filled with avant-garde ensembles that would make even the most seasoned designers sail down the Thames for a glimpse.
Imagine, if you will, the cobblestone streets of London pulsating with the raw energy of punk rock and counterculture. The air is thick with rebellion and creativity, as if every corner turned reveals another clandestine atelier where fashion is not just worn but lived. Enter Estella, our anti-heroine, whose transformation into Cruella de Vil is nothing short of sartorial alchemy.
From her humble beginnings as a scrappy orphan with an eye for design to her audacious debut in London’s high society, Cruella’s journey is a masterclass in style evolution.
Each outfit she dons is a statement, a rebellion against the mundane, and an embrace of the extraordinary. The film’s costume designer, Jenny Beavan, crafts each piece with such meticulous detail that they become characters in their own right—bold, unapologetic, and utterly unforgettable.
Picture Cruella crashing an elite gala in a gown that ignites into flames—an audacious spectacle that leaves the room breathless and her rivals quaking in their Louboutins. This isn’t just fashion; it’s warfare waged with tulle and leather, sequins and studs. The film captures the essence of what it means to use fashion as both armor and art form.
But beyond the glitz and glamour lies a deeper narrative about identity and self-expression.
Cruella’s metamorphosis is not merely about donning extravagant outfits; it’s about reclaiming power through style. In every stitch and seam, there is defiance—a refusal to conform to societal expectations and an insistence on carving out one’s path.
As we sashay through time and trends with *Cruella*, we are reminded that fashion is more than fabric; it is history woven into every thread, culture stitched into every hemline. It’s a testament to how clothing can be both a reflection of our inner selves and a bold proclamation to the world.
So next time you find yourself strolling down Fifth Avenue or perusing the racks at Bergdorf’s, remember: fashion isn’t just about what you wear; it’s about who you are—and who you dare to become. And in that spirit, let us tip our hats (preferably wide-brimmed and feathered) to *Cruella*, for showing us that sometimes, to truly stand out, one must first set everything ablaze.
4. Zoolander (2001)
Now for a dab of humor with our haute couture, we present Zoolander.
A cinematic gem that marries the absurd with the alluring, all while strutting down the catwalk of our collective consciousness.
Picture this: the opulent world of male modeling, where cheekbones are as chiseled as Michelangelo’s David and egos are inflated to Hindenburg proportions.
Enter Derek Zoolander, portrayed by the inimitable Ben Stiller, whose very name conjures images of high fashion and even higher hilarity.
In this satirical romp, we are whisked away into a universe where fashion is not merely an industry but a religion.
The film’s narrative is a tapestry woven with threads of satire, poking fun at the often ludicrous nature of haute couture while simultaneously celebrating its undeniable allure. Derek Zoolander, with his iconic Blue Steel look—a gaze so piercing it could slice through last season’s faux pas—becomes our guide through this labyrinthine world.
The film’s brilliance lies in its ability to juxtapose the glamorous with the grotesque. We see Derek’s rise to fame, his fall from grace, and his ultimate redemption—all set against a backdrop of outlandish fashion shows and eccentric designers. The characters are caricatures, yet they resonate with a truth that anyone familiar with the fashion world can recognize.
Take Mugatu, for instance—played by Will Ferrell—a designer whose eccentricity knows no bounds. His outrageous outfits and even more outrageous ideas serve as a mirror reflecting the sometimes absurd lengths to which fashion will go in its quest for innovation. And yet, beneath the layers of satire lies a genuine affection for the industry and its idiosyncrasies.
Zoolander is more than just a comedy; it’s a commentary on the ephemeral nature of trends and the eternal quest for beauty. It reminds us that fashion is both frivolous and fundamental—a paradox that has kept it at the forefront of cultural discourse for centuries. As we laugh at Derek’s misadventures, we also find ourselves contemplating the deeper implications of style and identity.
So, darlings, do your most fabulous ensemble and prepare to be entertained. Zoolander invites you to sashay through time and trends with a wink and a nod, proving that in the world of fashion, even the most ridiculous can be utterly exquisite.
5. Coco Before Chanel (2009)
Journey through time to discover the rags-to-riches tale of Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel, astoundingly portrayed by Audrey Tautou.
Before she became the emblematic figure of female empowerment and fashion innovation, a woman was defining her destiny with a needle and thread. Coco Before Chanel pays homage to the timeless elegance that only a true artist could conceive.
Picture this: the early 20th century, a world still clinging to corsets and frills, where women were more ornamental than autonomous.
Enter Gabrielle Chanel, a woman of humble beginnings with an audacious spirit and an eye for simplicity that would revolutionize fashion forever. The film captures her metamorphosis from an orphaned seamstress to the high priestess of haute couture, all while navigating the labyrinthine social mores of her time.
Audrey Tautou’s portrayal is nothing short of mesmerizing. With every stitch and every glance, she breathes life into Coco’s relentless pursuit of freedom—both sartorial and personal. The film’s cinematography is a visual feast, draped in muted tones that echo Chanel’s minimalist aesthetic. Each scene is a tableau vivant, where the fabric of history is interwoven with the threads of ambition and artistry.
As you watch Coco sketching designs in her modest atelier or defiantly cutting through swathes of fabric, you can’t help but feel the pulse of innovation that would soon ripple through Parisian society. Her creations were not just garments; they were declarations of independence, whispers of rebellion against the constricting norms of femininity.
Coco Before Chanel is more than a biopic; it’s an ode to the transformative power of fashion. It reminds us that style is not merely about what we wear but how we choose to present ourselves to the world. In Coco’s case, it was about carving out a space where elegance met empowerment, where simplicity spoke volumes.
So, darling reader, as you sashay through your own sartorial choices, remember Coco’s legacy. Let your wardrobe be your canvas, your clothes your brushstrokes. After all, in the grand tapestry of life and fashion, it’s those who dare to defy convention who leave an indelible mark.
6. The September Issue (2009)
What The Devil Wears Prada left to fiction, The September Issue reveals in riveting reality.
This documentary gives a behind-the-scenes look at American Vogue’s Editor-in-Chief, Anna Wintour, as she meticulously crafts the fashion bible’s biggest issue. It’s a film that gracefully stitches together the pages of vision, dedication, and the undying gospel of good taste.
If ever there was a cinematic love letter to the haute couture world, this is it. Imagine yourself perched on a plush velvet settee in a Fifth Avenue penthouse, sipping on a perfectly chilled glass of Dom Pérignon as you leaf through the glossy pages of Vogue’s most anticipated edition.
The film is an invitation to step into this rarefied world, where fashion isn’t just clothing—it’s an art form, a religion, and an unyielding pursuit of perfection.
Anna Wintour, with her signature bob and omnipresent sunglasses, is the high priestess of this sartorial sanctuary.
The documentary captures her in her natural habitat: the bustling offices of Vogue where every fabric swatch and photograph is scrutinized with an eye for nothing less than excellence. Her discerning gaze and unflinching standards are both awe-inspiring and intimidating. One can’t help but marvel at her ability to orchestrate such a grand symphony of style.
But let’s not forget Grace Coddington, Vogue’s Creative Director, and Anna’s formidable counterpart. Grace is the yin to Anna’s yang—a visionary with an ethereal touch who transforms mere concepts into visual poetry. Their dynamic is nothing short of electric; it’s like watching two maestros conduct an orchestra where every note must be pitch-perfect.
As the film unfolds, we are treated to a parade of fashion luminaries—designers like Karl Lagerfeld and Jean-Paul Gaultier make cameo appearances, their creations serving as both muse and masterpieces. The camera glides through ateliers filled with bolts of luxurious fabrics and sketchbooks brimming with avant-garde designs. It’s a world where creativity knows no bounds and every detail matters.
The climax of *The September Issue* is akin to the final walk at a couture show—the unveiling of the magazine itself. Each page turned is a testament to months of laborious effort, sleepless nights, and unwavering passion. It’s not just about clothes; it’s about capturing the zeitgeist, setting trends that will ripple through society like waves on a pristine beach.
In essence, The September Issue is more than just a documentary; it’s an odyssey through the labyrinthine corridors of high fashion.
It reminds us that behind every iconic cover lies a story—a tale woven with threads of ambition, creativity, and an unrelenting quest for beauty. So next time you pick up that hefty September issue of Vogue, remember: you’re not just holding a magazine; you’re holding a piece of history.
And there you have it—a cinematic journey that elegantly intertwines movies and fashion in a dance as timeless as Chanel No. 5.
7. Yves Saint Laurent (2014)
Ah, Yves Saint Laurent—a name that evokes visions of Parisian ateliers, where the air is thick with the scent of freshly cut silk and the hum of sewing machines.
The film Yves Saint Laurent is not merely a biopic; it is an odyssey through the labyrinthine corridors of fashion history. Picture yourself in 1960s Paris, where every cobblestone street whispers secrets of avant-garde creativity.
The film opens with a young Yves, played with mesmerizing finesse by Pierre Niney, as he steps into the spotlight at Dior. His eyes gleam with ambition and a touch of vulnerability—a prelude to the tempestuous journey that lies ahead.
As we sashay through the narrative, we witness Yves’ meteoric rise to fame. His designs are not just garments; they are revolutionary statements that challenge societal norms and redefine femininity. The Mondrian dress, for instance—oh, what a marvel! It’s as if Piet Mondrian’s abstract art leaped off the canvas and draped itself around a woman’s form. Each stitch tells a story; each seam is a brushstroke on the canvas of haute couture.
But behind the glamour and glitz lies a man tormented by inner demons. The film delves into Yves’ struggles—his battles with addiction and mental health issues—painting a poignant portrait of an artist whose brilliance was both his gift and his curse.
His relationship with Pierre Bergé, portrayed with equal depth by Guillaume Gallienne, adds another layer to this intricate tapestry. Their partnership is one of love and conflict, support and strife—a testament to how personal bonds can shape professional legacies.
The cinematography is nothing short of exquisite. Each frame is meticulously crafted to reflect the opulence and elegance synonymous with YSL’s brand. From lavish runway shows to intimate moments in Yves’ studio, the visual storytelling is as compelling as the narrative itself. The costumes—oh, darling, the costumes! They are a feast for the eyes, capturing the essence of YSL’s visionary genius.
Yves Saint Laurent is more than just a film; it is an homage to an era where fashion was not merely about clothing but about making bold statements and pushing boundaries. It reminds us that behind every iconic brand lies a human story—a tale of passion, struggle, triumph, and legacy. So sit back in your velvet armchair, sip on that perfectly chilled glass of Chardonnay, and let yourself be transported into a world where fashion meets art in its most sublime form.
8. Dior and I (2014)
Through the sleek doors of Paris’s Maison Dior, Dior and I welcome you to the metamorphosis of Raf Simons as he prepares his first haute couture collection.
This documentary balances the modern with the archival, a fresh-faced Simons against the echoes of Monsieur Dior, all culminating in a runway show that speaks volumes of history and evolution.
Imagine, if you will, stepping into the hallowed halls of Maison Dior, where every stitch whispers secrets of fashion’s illustrious past.
The air is thick with anticipation and the scent of freshly pressed silk. Raf Simons, a visionary with a penchant for minimalism, finds himself at the helm of this storied house. His task? To honor the legacy of Christian Dior while injecting his contemporary flair.
The film is a masterclass in juxtaposition. Archival footage of Monsieur Dior himself, with his impeccable suits and discerning eye, is interwoven with scenes of Simons’ creative process. We see him poring over sketches, deliberating fabric choices, and orchestrating fittings with a precision that borders on obsession. It’s a dance between past and present, tradition and innovation.
As the documentary unfolds, we are privy to the inner workings of haute couture – a world where artistry meets craftsmanship in the most exquisite manner. Seamstresses work tirelessly, their nimble fingers weaving dreams into reality. Each garment is a testament to hours of laborious dedication and unparalleled skill.
The climax is nothing short of spectacular. The runway show is not merely an event; it’s an experience that transcends time. Models glide down the catwalk in creations that are both an homage to Dior’s iconic silhouettes and a bold statement of Simons’ modern aesthetic. The audience gasps in awe as history and innovation collide in a symphony of tulle, organza, and brocade.
Dior and I is more than just a fashion documentary; it’s an evocative narrative that captures the essence of what it means to be at the intersection of art and commerce. It reminds us that fashion is not just about clothes; it’s about identity, expression, and legacy. As we watch Raf Simons navigate this delicate balance, we are reminded that true elegance lies in honoring the past while daring to envision the future.
9. The Neon Demon (2016)
Ah, The Neon Demon, where the runway meets the Twilight Zone and possibly the most hypnotizing entry, this film plunges into the dark side of fashion.
Picture this: Los Angeles, a city where dreams are spun from gossamer threads and nightmares lurk behind every glittering facade.
Enter Jesse, a fresh-faced ingénue with eyes wide open to the dazzling possibilities of high fashion. Elle Fanning’s portrayal is nothing short of mesmerizing; she embodies the ethereal allure that the fashion world covets and consumes.
As Jesse navigates this labyrinthine industry, she encounters characters as sharply cut as haute couture itself—each one more beguiling and treacherous than the last. The film’s director, Nicolas Winding Refn, paints with a palette of neon lights and shadowy corners, crafting scenes that are as visually arresting as they are unsettling. It’s a world where beauty is both currency and curse, where every glance in the mirror could reveal either an angel or a demon.
The costumes in The Neon Demon are not mere garments; they are statements, each one meticulously designed to reflect the duality of glamour and peril. From shimmering gowns that cascade like liquid silver to razor-sharp silhouettes that could double as weapons, every piece tells a story of aspiration and obsession.
The fashion here is not just about looking good; it’s about survival in an arena where only the most captivating—and cunning—prevail.
In one unforgettable scene, Jesse stands under a cascade of golden light, her dress sparkling like stardust. It’s a moment that encapsulates the film’s essence: beauty so intoxicating it borders on the otherworldly. Yet beneath this veneer lies a cautionary tale about the price of perfection and the darkness that often accompanies it.
The Neon Demon is more than just a film; it’s an experience—a hypnotic journey through the looking glass of fashion’s most alluring yet perilous realms. It reminds us that in this glittering world, what you see is rarely what you get. And sometimes, the most beautiful dreams can turn into your darkest nightmares.
So darling, if you’re ready to sashay through time and trends with us, prepare yourself for The Neon Demon. It’s not just a movie; it’s an odyssey into the heart of fashion’s most enigmatic shadows.
10. Funny Face (1957)
Lastly, a joyous jaunt down memory lane with the effervescent Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face. Set against the Parisian backdrop, this musical is a flirtatious frolic into the world of fashion magazines and existential philosophy – perhaps an unlikely pair, yet they step together in a charming pas de deux.
In this cinematic confection, Paris is not merely a setting but a character in its own right.
The cobblestone streets and chic cafés serve as runways for Jo’s transformation from shy intellectual to dazzling fashion icon. The film’s costumes, designed by the legendary Edith Head and Givenchy, are nothing short of sartorial poetry. Each ensemble tells a story – from Jo’s initial dowdy librarian look to her final metamorphosis into a radiant swan in that unforgettable red gown.
But beyond the glitz and glamour lies a deeper narrative about self-discovery and authenticity. Jo’s journey is not just about donning fabulous frocks; it’s about finding her voice amidst the cacophony of flashbulbs and fashion editors. It’s a reminder that true style emanates from within – an elegant dance between one’s inner essence and outward expression.
Funny Face is more than just a film; it’s an ode to the transformative power of fashion. It captures that ineffable moment when clothes become more than mere fabric – they become an extension of one’s soul. As we watch Jo twirl through Parisian streets, we are reminded that fashion is not just about keeping up with trends but about creating timeless moments that linger long after the credits roll.
So, darling reader, let us raise our champagne flutes to *Funny Face* – a cinematic gem that continues to sashay through time with unparalleled elegance and wit.
Closing Thoughts on Good Fashion Movies
Each of these good fashion movies has draped fashion in the celluloid spotlight, showcasing not just the glamor, but the immense creativity and artistry brewing within the seams of the industry. From the disarming elegance of Meryl Streep to the awe-inspiring transformation of Emma Stone as Cruella, cinema presents an everlasting catwalk where legends shimmer and dreams are tailored.
So, there you have it, a collection of films that offer more than just a glimpse into the wardrobe; they invite you to experience the soul of fashion itself.
They celebrate the rebels, the visionaries, the artists, and the icons who, dress by dress, thread by thread, craft the splendor of the fashion world.
Now pour yourself a glass of the finest prosecco and let yourself be draped in the haute couture splendor of movie history. Cheers, darlings.
