Analyze the best fashion films of the 21st century, exploring how cinema showcases style, trends, and the cultural impact of fashion on screen.
The world of fashion films merges two art forms: the visual allure of cinema and the glamour of high fashion. Over the past two decades, a number of fashion films have not only captured iconic moments in style but have also made lasting impressions on culture and entertainment. From documentaries that delve into the lives of designers to fictional films that bring the fashion industry’s drama and creativity to life, the 21st century has given us some of the best examples of this genre. In this article, we will be analyzing the most impactful fashion films of the 21st century.
1. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Few films have left as significant a mark on fashion and pop culture as The Devil Wears Prada. Starring Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, this film offers a fictional yet sharp look into the inner workings of a high-fashion magazine. Based on the novel by Lauren Weisberger, it highlights the intense pressure and creativity of the fashion world through the lens of Miranda Priestly, a character loosely based on Vogue’s Anna Wintour.
- Why It’s Iconic: The film showcases high-fashion designers, stunning couture, and the cutthroat nature of the industry, making it a must-watch for fashion lovers. The luxurious costuming by Patricia Field became as iconic as the characters themselves, cementing the film’s legacy in cinema.
2. Dior and I (2014)
This documentary provides an intimate look at one of the most prestigious fashion houses in the world. Dior and I follows the appointment of Raf Simons as the creative director of Dior and captures the eight-week journey leading to his first haute couture collection. The film beautifully illustrates the creative process, the pressure of living up to a legendary brand, and the collaborative effort behind making fashion history.
- Why It’s Iconic: Dior and I highlights the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into haute couture, blending fashion history with the modern innovation of Simons. For fans of both fashion films and documentaries, it offers a rare glimpse into a world few get to experience firsthand.
3. Phantom Thread (2017)
Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Phantom Thread is a fictional story about a renowned 1950s London fashion designer, Reynolds Woodcock. The film beautifully captures the relationship between creativity and obsession in the world of haute couture. With its lavish costumes and detailed portrayal of the fashion-making process, Phantom Thread is a visually stunning piece of cinema that explores the darker, more obsessive side of fashion.
- Why It’s Iconic: This film offers a cinematic exploration of how fashion can shape both personal and artistic identity. The elegant, detailed costume design earned the film critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Costume Design.
4. Yves Saint Laurent (2014)
This French biopic chronicles the life and career of one of the most influential designers of the 20th century, Yves Saint Laurent. The film explores his early years, the creation of his fashion empire, and his personal and professional challenges. With dazzling depictions of his collections and a focus on his groundbreaking vision, Yves Saint Laurent brings one of fashion’s greatest icons to the screen.
- Why It’s Iconic: The film captures the essence of Saint Laurent’s genius, from his revolutionary designs to his personal struggles, providing a rich narrative of how fashion evolves alongside a designer’s life.
5. The September Issue (2009)
For fashion enthusiasts, The September Issue is an essential documentary. It follows Vogue’s editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour, as she prepares for the 2007 September issue of Vogue, the most important edition of the year. The film captures the intensity and importance of the fashion magazine industry and highlights the meticulous planning that goes into creating a magazine that shapes trends worldwide.
- Why It’s Iconic: The behind-the-scenes access to Vogue’s editorial process makes this one of the best fashion films for anyone interested in how fashion media influences global style. Anna Wintour’s influence on fashion is captured alongside the artistic input of Grace Coddington, making for an insightful documentary.
6. McQueen (2018)
This documentary offers a powerful and emotional look into the life and career of British designer Alexander McQueen. McQueen explores the designer’s early beginnings, his meteoric rise to fame, and his untimely death. Through interviews, archival footage, and a focus on his most famous runway shows, the film highlights McQueen’s incredible talent and his boundary-pushing approach to fashion.
- Why It’s Iconic: McQueen not only examines the designer’s creative genius but also touches on the emotional and psychological toll that his success took on him. The film’s stunning visuals and candid interviews make it an unforgettable entry in the world of fashion films.
7. Coco Before Chanel (2009)
Starring Audrey Tautou, Coco Before Chanel tells the story of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel’s early life, focusing on her rise from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most famous names in fashion. The film highlights her groundbreaking ideas and her determination to break free from the traditional restrictions of women’s fashion during the early 20th century.
- Why It’s Iconic: Coco Before Chanel captures the essence of Chanel’s minimalist and revolutionary design philosophy, showcasing how her influence shaped modern fashion. The film’s attention to detail in costumes and settings makes it a beautiful portrayal of fashion history.
Conclusion: The Enduring Power of Fashion Films
Fashion films are a unique genre that combine the storytelling power of cinema with the artistic vision of the fashion world. The 21st century has given rise to a number of incredible films that celebrate the creativity, passion, and challenges faced by fashion designers and insiders. From biopics of legendary figures to documentaries that pull back the curtain on the fashion industry, these best films offer fascinating insights into a world that constantly inspires and evolves.
