Fashion documentaries offer a unique glimpse into the world of style, creativity, and the business behind the glamour. These films not only showcase the evolution of fashion but also delve into the lives of designers, models, and the cultural impact of fashion. This curated list of documentaries provides an insightful journey through the fashion industry, appealing to both fashion enthusiasts and those curious about the behind-the-scenes magic.

Bill Cunningham New York (2010)
Description: A heartwarming tribute to the legendary street photographer Bill Cunningham, who captured the essence of fashion on the streets of New York City.
Fact: Cunningham famously refused to accept payment for his work, believing it would compromise his independence.


The True Cost (2015)
Description: This film examines the impact of the fashion industry on people and the planet, revealing the dark side of fast fashion and advocating for ethical practices.
Fact: It features interviews with industry insiders, activists, and workers, offering a broad perspective on the fashion industry's global effects.


Fresh Dressed (2015)
Description: A vibrant exploration of hip-hop fashion, from its roots in the streets to its influence on global fashion trends, featuring interviews with key figures in the scene.
Fact: The film includes commentary from Snoop Dogg, Kanye West, and Pharrell Williams, among others, giving it a rich tapestry of voices.


The First Monday in May (2016)
Description: Focused on the Metropolitan Museum of Art's annual Costume Institute Gala, this film showcases the preparation, the event, and the cultural significance of fashion.
Fact: The film includes behind-the-scenes footage of the creation of the "China: Through the Looking Glass" exhibit.


McQueen (2018)
Description: A poignant exploration of the life and career of Alexander McQueen, this documentary highlights his genius, struggles, and the legacy he left in the fashion world.
Fact: The film uses McQueen's own voice through archival footage, providing an intimate look into his mind.


The September Issue (2009)
Description: This documentary provides an exclusive look into the making of Vogue's iconic September issue, capturing the intense editorial process and the dynamic between editor-in-chief Anna Wintour and her team.
Fact: The film was originally intended to focus on the entire fashion industry but narrowed down to Vogue after gaining access to their editorial process.


Manolo: The Boy Who Made Shoes for Lizards (2017)
Description: A charming documentary about Manolo Blahnik, exploring his journey from a small Spanish island to becoming one of the world's most famous shoe designers.
Fact: The title refers to a childhood story where Manolo made shoes for lizards, showcasing his early creativity.


Unzipped (1995)
Description: This documentary follows designer Isaac Mizrahi as he prepares for his fall fashion show, offering a humorous and insightful look into the creative process.
Fact: It was one of the first films to give an insider's view of the fashion world, making it a pioneering work in fashion documentaries.


The Director (2013)
Description: This documentary follows Franca Sozzani, the editor-in-chief of Vogue Italia, as she navigates the fashion world, highlighting her influence and vision.
Fact: Sozzani was known for her controversial and thought-provoking covers, often tackling social issues.


Dior and I (2014)
Description: Follow Raf Simons as he takes over as creative director of Dior and prepares his first haute couture collection in just eight weeks, showcasing the pressure and creativity of high fashion.
Fact: The film was shot over the course of five weeks, capturing the intense preparation for the Dior show.
