Fashion and film have always had a close relationship. A great movie can tell a story through more than dialogue and acting—it can use clothing, styling, makeup, photography, and set design to establish a character, define an era, or even influence the way audiences dress.
Some fashion films take us behind the scenes of the industry, while others simply use clothing as an essential part of storytelling. From the glamorous offices of Runway to the couture houses of Paris, these movies and documentaries offer something for every fashion lover. Major fashion publications continue to highlight films such as The Devil Wears Prada, The September Issue, Phantom Thread, Dior and I, and Funny Face among the most memorable fashion films. (Vogue)
Whether you are studying fashion, interested in styling, creating fashion content, or simply love beautiful clothes, these 6 fashion films are must-watch titles.
1. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
If you are looking for an introduction to fashion films, The Devil Wears Prada is probably the perfect place to start.
The film follows Andy Sachs, a young aspiring journalist who lands a job as an assistant to Miranda Priestly, the famously intimidating editor-in-chief of fictional fashion magazine Runway. What begins as a job Andy considers temporary eventually introduces her to the demanding and glamorous world of fashion publishing.
The movie is packed with memorable outfits, designer references, dramatic makeovers, and iconic characters. Miranda’s sophisticated wardrobe and Andy’s transformation from inexperienced assistant to fashion-conscious professional make the film particularly entertaining for style enthusiasts.
Beyond the clothes, however, the movie explores ambition, workplace culture, identity, and the sacrifices people make to succeed.
Why watch it: For iconic 2000s fashion, memorable characters, and one of cinema’s most entertaining looks at fashion publishing.
2. The September Issue (2009)
If The Devil Wears Prada shows us a fictional fashion magazine, The September Issue takes us inside the real world of Vogue.
This documentary follows the creation of the magazine’s September 2007 issue, traditionally one of the most important issues of the fashion calendar. It offers viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the editorial process and the personalities involved in producing a major fashion publication. (Wallpaper*)
One of the most fascinating aspects is the contrast between editor Anna Wintour’s business-focused approach and creative director Grace Coddington’s artistic perspective.
The result is more than a documentary about a magazine. It is a fascinating look at how fashion, photography, business, creativity, and editorial decisions come together.
Why watch it: For anyone curious about what actually happens behind the pages of a major fashion magazine.
3. Phantom Thread (2017)
Phantom Thread takes fashion in a completely different direction.
Set in post-war London, the film follows renowned dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock, a perfectionist whose life revolves around creating exquisite couture garments for wealthy clients and members of high society.
The movie explores the relationship between Woodcock and Alma, a young woman who becomes his muse and romantic partner. Fashion isn’t simply decoration here—it is central to the characters, their relationships, and the story itself.
The film’s costumes are exceptionally detailed, reflecting the precision and craftsmanship associated with couture. Phantom Thread also won the Academy Award for Best Costume Design. (Vogue)
Why watch it: For haute couture, beautiful period costumes, obsessive craftsmanship, and an unconventional story about creativity and love.
4. Coco Before Chanel (2009)
Before Chanel became one of the most recognizable names in fashion, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel was a young woman trying to establish herself in a world where women’s clothing was heavily influenced by restrictive traditions.
Coco Before Chanel explores the early life of the legendary designer and the experiences that helped shape her distinctive approach to fashion.
The film is particularly interesting for viewers who want to understand how a designer’s environment and personal experiences can influence their creative vision.
It also provides a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century French fashion, from elaborate clothing to the gradual emergence of simpler, more practical styles.
Why watch it: For fashion history, Chanel’s beginnings, and the story of a woman who challenged traditional ideas about how women should dress.
5. Dior and I (2014)
What happens when a designer has only a few weeks to create a haute couture collection for one of the world’s most famous fashion houses?
That is the central tension of Dior and I.
The documentary follows designer Raf Simons as he prepares his first haute couture collection for Dior. According to fashion publications covering the film, Simons had roughly eight weeks to develop the collection, creating an intense behind-the-scenes story about creativity, deadlines, craftsmanship, and collaboration. (Vogue)
What makes the film especially interesting is that couture is shown as a team effort. Designers may receive the attention, but countless artisans and craftspeople contribute to transforming an idea into an actual garment.
Why watch it: For an authentic look at haute couture and the extraordinary amount of work behind a runway collection.
6. Funny Face (1957)
For lovers of classic cinema and vintage fashion, Funny Face is essential viewing.
The film stars Audrey Hepburn as Jo Stockton, a bookshop employee who unexpectedly becomes involved in the fashion world after being discovered by a fashion photographer.
The result is a glamorous musical filled with Parisian scenery, photography, dance, and unforgettable fashion moments.
One of the film’s greatest attractions is its visual style. Audrey Hepburn’s elegant wardrobe, combined with the film’s Paris setting, creates a timeless fashion fantasy.
The movie also demonstrates how fashion photography, magazines, models, and designers were becoming increasingly influential in popular culture.
Why watch it: For classic Hollywood glamour, Parisian fashion, Audrey Hepburn, and timeless style.
Why Fashion Films Are Worth Watching
Fashion films give us more than beautiful clothes to admire.
They can teach us about fashion history, design, photography, styling, branding, journalism, filmmaking, and popular culture. They also demonstrate how clothing can communicate personality and social status without a character saying a single word.
A designer’s collection can tell a story. A magazine can influence an entire industry. A photographer can turn street clothing into a cultural record. And a character’s wardrobe can become so memorable that it remains recognizable decades after a movie is released.
That is why fashion and cinema work so well together.
Whether you want the workplace drama of The Devil Wears Prada, the behind-the-scenes realism of The September Issue and Dior and I, the artistry of Phantom Thread and McQueen, or the nostalgic style of Clueless and Funny Face, these films are excellent additions to any fashion lover’s watchlist. Fashion publications continue to feature many of these titles among essential fashion viewing, reinforcing their lasting influence on the relationship between clothing and cinema. (Vogue)
If you could watch only three tonight, start with The Devil Wears Prada, The September Issue, and Phantom Thread. They offer three very different perspectives on fashion—and together, they show just how powerful clothing can be as part of storytelling.