10 Fashion Films to Watch in Quarantine
With the cancellation of fashion shows and the lack of street style inspo in the wake of the pandemic, it’s easy to feel alienated from the world of fashion. We’ve rounded up some documentaries about the industry as well as a few films that feature some truly spectacular costumes to brighten your day and help you feel a bit more connected to fashionistas everywhere.
1. The September Issue
This documentary covers the months leading up to Vogue’s 2007 September issue – the largest to date at the time. The film follows the work of American Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour and creative director Grace Coddington as they prepare the photoshoots and layout for the 840-page behemoth that was the 2007 September issue. The film also gives an intimate look into the life of Vogue higher-ups, in particular, Wintour and Coddington. This is an ideal watch for anyone looking to get a real look into the world of fashion journalism.
2. The First Monday in May
Another documentary film, “The First Monday in May” gives a glimpse into the blood, sweat and tears that go into the most important day in fashion – the Met Gala. The film documents the preparation and execution of the 2015 Met Gala, themed China: Through the Looking Glass. Viewers get an inside look into the work that Vogue editors, museum curators and designers do in the months, weeks and days leading up to the first Monday in May.
3. Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Audrey Hepburn in the iconic black Givenchy dress – need I say more? “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” is arguably the most stylish film of all time. Holly Golightly’s oft eccentric outfits come to life on the screen with the help of Hepburn’s inimitable grace and style. If you haven’t seen this classic yet, now’s the time!
4. Iris
“Iris” documents the life of eccentric fashion icon, Iris Apfel. Notorious for her larger-than-life style, Apfel has led a fascinating life, from interior designer to author, she has truly done it all – and with style and pizzazz to spare. Director Albert Maysles picks the fashion icon’s brain on her approach to personal style, career success and marriage in this can’t-miss film about one of fashion’s most influential figures.
5. Bill Cunningham New York
This documentary film follows the extraordinary life and career of fashion photojournalist Bill Cunningham. Cunningham photographed for The New York Times for over 25 years, documenting every sphere of fashion in New York City, from high society to the everyday work-wear of Manhattanites. The film offers a glimpse into Cunningham’s unique view of fashion and its place in the world as well an intimate look into his sparsely documented personal life.
6. Sex and the City (and Sex and the City 2)
“Sex and the City” is undoubtedly one of the most stylish franchises to date. The original TV show that spawned two wildly successful films follows the lives of four fabulous women in Manhattan as they navigate love, career and friendship – all in Manolo Blahniks, of course. The two spin-off movies that followed are equally as fabulous and stylish. Expect to see bird’s nests for hats, head-to-toe sequins and flowers the size of your head.
7. Dior and I
This behind-the-scenes documentary brings viewers into the inner workings of one of the most iconic fashion houses in the world, Christian Dior, as newly appointed creative director of womenswear Raf Simons prepares his debut collection. The film details the immense pressure that Simons faced in the months leading up to the release, as well as his creative genius in the development and curation of the collection. “Dior and I” is a must-see for anyone looking to get a glimpse into the good, the bad and the ugly of the fashion industry.
8. Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel
The late Diana Vreeland was one of the most influential figures in the fashion industry. Fashion editor for Harper’s Bazaar and later the editor-in-chief for American Vogue, Vreeland was a true pioneer in fashion journalism in the mid-20th century. Vreeland was known for her creativity, drive and bluntness – she had opinions and she wasn’t afraid to make them known. In a time when it was rare for women to have aspirations beyond wife and mother, Vreeland redefined modern womanhood and blazed the trail for ambitious women for decades to come.
9. Funny Face
This feel-good film starring Audrey Hepburn features some of the most elaborate, fashion-forward costumes to grace the silver screen. The movie follows the blooming romance of fashion photographer Dick Avery (Fred Astaire) and model Jo Stockton (Audrey Hepburn) as they travel from New York to Paris. Replete with sleek, sophisticated ensembles and avant-garde costumes that will leave your jaw on the floor, “Funny Face” is every fashionista’s dream.
10. Coco Before Chanel
This biographical drama explores the early life of one of fashion’s most iconic figures: Coco Chanel. Before Chanel was a household name, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel was a seamstress by day and a cabaret singer by night. When an encounter with a wealthy French socialite gives Coco an in with Paris’ elite, the young designer finds great success with her burgeoning milliner business. A film about love, loss and what it takes to become one of the most celebrated names in fashion, “Coco Before Chanel” should be on the top of your must-watch list.
Movies can be a great way to spend some of your newfound free time in quarantine, especially when they feature the likes of Audrey Hepburn or Sarah Jessica Parker. Whether you’re in the mood for an informative documentary or just a little something to brighten your day, you can’t go wrong with these picks. Happy watching, fellow fashionphiles!