Confessions of a Fashion Movie Lover
Here's My Must-Watch List
I know what you’re thinking—this is just another list of movies, right? Well, as someone who lives and breathes fashion, I’ve always found it surprisingly difficult to find a good list of fashion films that truly capture the essence of what we love about style, drama, and the power of a great outfit. Fashion is more than just clothes; it’s about identity, creativity, and the way we present ourselves to the world. There are plenty of movies that include fashion throughout their storylines, but the films I’ve picked here go beyond that—they place fashion at the very center of the plot.
In this guide, you’ll find a little bit of everything: from light, fun, and flirty films where fashion takes on a playful tone to more serious, thought-provoking stories that dig deep into the world of haute couture. Whether you're looking for some casual inspiration or a deep dive into the intricacies of the fashion industry, this list has you covered. And for those of you waiting for a documentary fix, don’t worry & stay tuned. For now, let's dive into the world of fashion on screen. Whether you're here for the glamour or the depth, these films will give you a fresh perspective on the many layers of fashion.
Fashion Films That Bring the Fun
The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
There’s no better way to kick off a fashion movie list than with The Devil Wears Prada. This film is practically a rite of passage for anyone who’s ever dreamed of working in fashion. It’s not just the big personalities or the high-pressure stakes that make this movie a must-watch—it’s the way it celebrates and critiques the fashion world in equal measure. From Miranda Priestly’s ice-cold power suits to Andy’s Cinderella-style makeover, this film is a runway of memorable fashion moments. And if you’re in fashion for the long haul, the lesson here is clear: you’ve got to be as tough as your stiletto heels.
Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009)
If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “I have nothing to wear,” while surrounded by a sea of clothes, Confessions of a Shopaholic is going to feel very relatable. Isla Fisher’s portrayal of Rebecca Bloomwood, a journalist with a shopping addiction, is equal parts hilarious and cringe-worthy. Her colorful, over-the-top outfits match her larger-than-life personality, and while the film isn’t exactly deep, it’s a fun reminder that fashion is as much about having fun as it is about making a statement.
Clueless (1995)
As if! Cher Horowitz has been the reigning queen of 90s fashion since Clueless first hit the screen. Her iconic yellow plaid outfit is just the beginning of the sartorial magic this movie offers. Cher’s computerized closet, complete with outfit coordination software, is still every fashion lover’s dream. Beyond the clothes, though, Clueless is a smart and snappy satire of teen culture, and its fashion-forward legacy is a testament to how clothing can define a moment in pop culture.
Funny Face (1957)
Audrey Hepburn’s transformation from shy bookworm to glamorous Parisian model in Funny Face is a dream come true for any fashion lover. The film is filled with chic Givenchy designs, romantic moments, and, of course, Audrey’s effortlessly stylish aura. Funny Face is more than just a musical comedy—it’s a celebration of the transformative power of fashion, proving that the right outfit can change your whole perspective on life.
Cruella (2021)
For the modern fashion rebel, Cruella is a visual feast that’s packed with drama, fashion, and a little bit of villainy. Emma Stone’s portrayal of the infamous Disney villain is wrapped in some of the most stunning and inventive outfits you’ll see in any film. Set in the punk rock world of 1970s London, the movie doesn’t shy away from bold colors, daring designs, and unexpected fashion statements. If you’re looking for a film that pushes boundaries and celebrates the rebellious side of fashion, this one’s for you.
Ocean’s 8 (2018)
Though technically a heist film, Ocean’s 8 gives us some serious fashion envy. The plot centers around a daring jewelry heist during the Met Gala, and with that setting, you can imagine the level of style this movie brings. From couture gowns to sparkling diamonds, every character exudes elegance and attitude. For those who love a mix of fashion and drama, this movie offers a double dose of glam.
Films That Go Beyond the Runway
Coco Before Chanel (2009)
For the Chanel lovers, Coco Before Chanel tells the story of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel before she became a household name. The film takes you through Chanel’s early life and the revolutionary ideas she brought to fashion—like the idea that women’s clothing could be both beautiful and comfortable. It’s a fascinating look at how one woman’s vision changed the entire fashion landscape, and the costumes alone are worth the watch.
The Dressmaker (2015)
Kate Winslet stars in The Dressmaker as a talented seamstress who returns to her rural hometown to settle old ties. The movie’s high-fashion costumes, set against a small-town backdrop, create a striking contrast, but it’s the way the film uses fashion as a tool for empowerment and revenge that makes it so interesting. The stunning vintage-inspired designs show how fashion can be transformative—not just in how you look, but in how you feel.
Phantom Thread (2017)
Phantom Thread is for the true fashion connoisseurs, the ones who appreciate the true artistry behind every stitch. Daniel Day-Lewis stars as Reynolds Woodcock, a couture dressmaker whose obsessive attention to detail borders on unhealthy. The film explores the sometimes toxic relationship between designer and muse, and the tension between control and creativity. For those who love high fashion and drama, this film offers a mesmerizing look into the world of couture.
House of Gucci (2021)
Based on the true story of the Gucci family’s rise and fall, House of Gucci is packed with 80s and 90s fashion drama. Lady Gaga’s portrayal of Patrizia Reggiani is a tour de force, and the film gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how the world’s most famous fashion houses can unravel due to power struggles, greed, and betrayal. With its larger-than-life characters and even larger fashion moments, House of Gucci is a juicy exploration of how style can both define and destroy a dynasty.
Fashion in movies is more than a bunch of stylish outfits—it’s a reflection of the characters, their stories, and the worlds they inhabit. These films not only showcase the power of clothing but also reveal how fashion intersects with identity, culture, and ambition. Whether it’s the cheeky and playful tones of Clueless and Confessions of a Shopaholic or the intense focus on design and craftsmanship in Phantom Thread and House of Gucci, fashion in cinema provides a unique lens through which we can explore human expression.
These movies remind us that fashion isn’t just about looking good—it’s about how clothes can define, empower, and sometimes even challenge who we are. Fashion, as portrayed on film, often mirrors the real world, where it acts as a tool for transformation, a marker of time, and even a source of conflict and resolution.
So whether you're a seasoned fashion lover or just dipping your toes into the world of style, these films offer a perfect way to experience the highs, lows, and intricacies of the fashion industry. Pour yourself a glass of wine (or a cup of coffee), pick one of these movies, and get ready to see fashion not just as something you wear, but as something that tells a story—one that’s always evolving, just like your wardrobe.
XO,
𝒇𝒂𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒇𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒆