Salma Samir
Fashion documentaries provide insight into the fashion industry that you may not have considered before. It’s like getting a peek behind the curtain, and when the curtain opens, you get to see the finished product, ready for you to wear and style.
While not all famous designers reveal their secrets, the inside of the fashion industry remains a mystery to some; however, you can learn more about these secrets by watching documentaries and movies. For example, consider this: in the fashion world, without film and cameras to capture the moment; we would never have been able to record any of these moments and still talk about them, such as Moschino’s unique fashion shows.
While you may not work in the fashion industry but have an interest in it, many documentaries available will give you an idea of what it takes to get any style into the spotlight.
So, if you want to learn more about fashion, check out these very interesting documentaries.
10 Fashion Documentaries That Will Change Your Perspective
McQueen (2018)
McQueen is a fashion documentary that follows the late designer’s rise from East London to stardom on the Paris catwalks, whose designs continue to amaze us to this day.
His career began in his teens, and he rose to fame as a designer for Givenchy before launching his own label, which still runs till today. Unfortunately, he tragically committed suicide in 2010.
In this must-see documentary, you’ll see Alexander Lee McQueen in a way you’ve never seen him before. You will get to witness his most realistic struggles to his creative states, as the filmmakers had access to an off-limits archive of work and film footage that will make you feel as if you were there with him every step of the way. But, of course, you can always watch it on Netflix.
Dior And I (2014)
Have you ever wondered how designers create designs for a fashion show to showcase their work? The documentary is precisely what “Dior & I” provides. The behind-the-scenes documentary of Raf Simons’ first haute couture show as Dior’s creative director.
It follows Simon on his intense, stressful journey of creating a new vision in just eight weeks, working with new ateliers, and the chaos that comes with the process. It is unquestionably a must-see!
Even if you are not the one organising the fashion show, prepare yourself for some intense stress. You can watch it on Amazon.
Jeremy Scott: The People’s Designer (2015)
Jeremy Scott from a small town to the Creative Director of Moschino; yes, we’re talking about Jeremy Scott, who is known for his eclectic style and out-of-the-box designs.
The documentary follows his fashion career and his iconic runway looks. While watching, keep an eye out for guest stars from some of our favourite celebrities like Rihanna, A$AP Rocky, Miley Cyrus, and Katy Perry all appear in the documentary. You can always stream it on Netflix.
Lagerfeld Confidential (2007)
Karl Lagerfeld is known as the man behind the famous dark glasses. This documentary delves into Karl’s personal life. It explains his upbringing in Germany and how he moved to Paris to pursue his passion for fashion.
You also get to see Karl’s open and honest side, from his chaotic Parisian apartment to a luxurious private jet, giving viewers a glimpse into his life. In 2019, the world lost a fashion icon. So bless your eyes with all the artistic things you see, and watch the documentary on Apple TV.
Iris (2014)
Do you know the fashionable lady with the oversized Jackie O-style frames? Iris Apfel is her name. An interior designer who quickly rose to fame as a style icon due to her eclectic fashion sense.
The documentary focuses on Iris, who is not afraid to wear vibrant colour combos. It tells the story of her fashion journey and her stunning style.
The documentary is an excellent example of how fashion is about taking risks, as the vibrant Iris gives a great example. This vibrantly colourful documentary is available on Amazon.
Mademoiselle C (2013)
Magazines have always been a great resource for most of us to learn about the latest fashion trends. This documentary dives deep into the world of fashion magazines. Mademoiselle C follows Carine Roitfeld, former Vogue editor-in-chief, on her journey to launch her own magazine, CR Fashion Book.
Roitfeld had been the Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Paris for ten years before announcing her retirement. The documentary portrays her famed legendary status in the industry, making a huge imprint in the fashion field, and how she built her icon status. Learn more about the magazine industry by watching the documentary on Apple TV.
L’Amour Fou (2010)
Do you know the high-heeled shoes with heels shaped like the brand’s logo? YSL? Yes, we will get a fascinating insight into Yves Saint Laurent’s life and how, despite numerous obstacles, the designer immersed himself in his work.
This fashion documentary gives us a glimpse into Saint Laurent’s life, including everything about his relationship with his partner Pierre Bergé and his ongoing battle with depression and substance abuse. But, of course, you can always go back and watch it on Amazon Prime.
The First Monday in May (2016)
We all look forward to the Met Gala each year to see all of the fashionable avant-garde gowns, but have you ever considered what goes on behind the scenes for us to witness such a spectacular event?
The documentary transports us back to 2015, with Vogue editor Anna Wintour and Met Gala chair Andrew Bolton providing a behind-the-scenes look at the event, which was attended by Rihanna and Beyoncé, as well as a Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibition. If you don’t remember, this year’s theme was China: Through The Looking Glass. But, of course, you can always watch it on Amazon Prime.
Westwood: Punk. Icon. Activist (2018)
Vivienne Westwood has been an icon for over 40 years, reshaping British fashion and inspiring many of today’s most extraordinary looks.
In 2018, Vivienne’s documentary gathered so much old footage and inspiring interviews. You’ll also see her fascinating network of colleagues grow, transporting viewers from her childhood to the present day. Westwood maintains her brand and legacy with the same iconic legacy that made her who she is in the first place. Watch the punk queen on Amazon Prime.
Fresh Dressed (2015)
We’ve all seen how the hip-hop scene has evolved and influenced everything around us over the last decade. The fashion documentary Fresh Dressed tells the story of hip-hop fashion and how an urban-led style emerged from the South to find a home in the Bronx.
Oversized fashion is currently popular, but do you know where it came from? Well, you’ll learn all about it in the Fresh Dressed documentary. Oversized pants and graffiti jackets made their way from Orchard Street to catwalks. It’s a must-see on Amazon Prime.
Finally, Don’t Forget About the Snacks
You’ll need snacks or some paper and markers if you’re going to watch a fashion documentary because most of the documentaries will inspire you. The question is, which one is your favourite?