Not Sure What to Watch?
If you’re a fan of fashion or just want to gawk at some stunning looks, then here are 20 movies everyone needs to check out. From historical gems that emphasize long-lost styles to cutting-edge homages that illuminate your favorite brands, this is the only list you’ll need.
1. Barbie
Barbie was released in 2023 to critical acclaim. Starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, this movie follows Barbie and Ken on a journey of self-discovery. The movie pays homage to some of the playful and nostalgic looks popularized by Barbie, including the iconic 1950s zebra-stripe swimsuit and the modern pink cowboy look.
2. Funny Face
Starring Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire, this 1957 classic film follows a bookstore clerk as she is whisked away to the high-end fashion world of Paris. With stunning costumes provided by none other than Hubert de Givenchy, this movie perfectly blends haute couture with timeless storytelling.
Bud Fraker (1916-2002) [1] on Wikimedia
3. House of Gucci
House of Gucci is a more recent movie that released in 2021 with Lady Gaga and Adam Driver as leads. The story pays homage to the rise and fall of the Gucci family empire, including a mystery that left the world on the edge of their seats. The movie also includes an extensive costume wardrobe, taking heavy inspiration from the glamour of the '80s and '90s.
Masaaki Komori from Tokyo, JAPAN on Wikimedia
4. The Devil Wears Prada
Starring Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, this 2006 film is a must-watch for most. The story follows a young journalist as she comes face to face with a vindictive top fashion magazine editor. The styling in the movie is contemporary and bold and was inspired by the real-life outfits of Vogue’s Anna Wintour.
5. Crazy Rich Asians
With a name as bold as that, you would expect to see some pretty daring and extravagant looks. Well, this is exactly what 2018’s Crazy Rich Asians delivers. Starring Constance Wu and Henry Golding, the movie provides an in-depth look at the opulence and modern luxury of the wealthiest.
MTV International on Wikimedia
6. Phantom Thread
This understated thriller follows the relationship between a fashion designer and his muse. Starring Vicky Krieps and Daniel Day-Lewis, the movie pays homage to haute couture from the 1950s and takes extra care to illuminate details and craftsmanship.
7. Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris
In this feel-good film, a cleaning lady saves up every penny to fly herself to Paris and buy a Dior gown in the 1950s. While a bit romantic, the movie focuses on the glamorous world of high-end designers and ushers in a new era of fashion.
8. Coco Before Chanel
This documentary follows the real-life story of Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel, who would go on to revolutionize the Chanel fashion empire. The movie details her journey as a fashion icon and includes timeless pieces inspired by real events.
9. Anna Karenina
Starring Keira Knightley and Jude Law, this 2012 film follows a doomed love affair within the Russian aristocracy. The fashion is inspired by the 19th century and includes stunning and timeless avant-garde pieces that will leave you breathless.
Henrich Matveevich Manizer on Wikimedia
10. Marie Antoinette
Similar to Anna Karenina, Marie Antoinette showcases the opulent fashion of the 18th century. From pastel-colored gowns to sky-high wigs, this movie starring Kirsten Dunst also explores the rise and fall of one of France’s most infamous queens.
11. Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Starring none other than Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard, this 1961 classic follows a quirky socialite as she grapples with her past and finds a new place for herself in the world. This movie actually made Givenchy’s little black dress famous and further secured Audrey Hepburn’s reputation as a symbol of timeless elegance.
12. The Princess Diaries
For a more approachable film, The Princess Diaries offers feel-good vibes and a fun plot as Anne Hathaway’s character discovers her inheritance of a European kingdom. The movie features a fashion-forward transformation scene and influenced regal and elegant looks fit for any princess.
13. Heathers
This cult classic did a lot for fashion, solidifying preppy power blazers and using bold colors to symbolize high school hierarchies. To tie it together, this movie starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater cranks teenage romance and rivalries to a hundred.
14. Zoolander
For a sillier take on the fashion world, 2001’s Zoolander follows Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson as a fresh and not-so-bright male model disrupts the fashion industry. The movie aims to mock the outlandish looks often celebrated on runways and is predominantly inspired by actual haute couture from the '90s.
15. Kinky Boots
If you’re a fan of musicals, then this 2005 film starring Chiwetel Ejiofor and Joel Edgerton is a solid pick. The plot kicks off after a shoe factory reinvents itself as a supplier of glamorous boots fit for any drag queen. From vibrant costumes to glamorous footwear, this movie reads like a love letter to drag culture.
16. The Man from UNCLE
While not particularly a fashion movie, this quirky spy movie pays homage to the sleek and spy-centric outfits inspired by the 1960s. From mod looks to sharp tailoring, the funny dialogue and entertaining premise will keep you hooked. The fact that it stars Henry Cavill and Armie Hammer only further solidifies its standing.
17. Pretty Woman
In this unlikely romance, Julia Roberts plays a lady of the night that meets Richard Gere’s stoic businessman character. The movie follows the woman’s transformation from streetwear to elegant couture as she learns to balance two different worlds.
18. Atomic Blonde
This is another movie that didn’t have fashion in mind but ended up revolutionizing the game. In this spy thriller, Charlize Theron must retrieve a stolen artifact. But she ends up stealing our hearts with her edgy '80s-inspired punk and glam looks. From leather to trench coats, this movie is hard to take your eyes off.
19. Valentino The Last Emperor
Released in 2008, this movie followed the real life of Valentino Garavani, who plays himself. It chronicles his life and career and offers behind-the-scenes looks into some of his most luxurious and dynamic designs.
20. Dior and I
This 2014 documentary starring Raf Simons, a creative director at Dior, showcases him putting together his first collection. Balancing themes of homage and legacy, Raf blends timeless fashions with modern homages as he makes his mark on the fashion industry.
