On March 5, the film “Couture” starring Angelina Jolie, set against the backdrop of Paris Fashion Week, will be released in Ukrainian cinemas. We have compiled five captivating films about fashion that are worth seeing at least once in a lifetime – from the satirical 90s picture “Ready to Wear” to the iconic “The Devil Wears Prada”.
“Ready to Wear”, 1994
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Robert Altman’s film is an open satire of the fashion world, where nothing is as it seems. The director employs his signature pseudo-documentary style, adding cameos by Julia Roberts, Sophia Loren, and Lauren Bacall – each portraying a socialite arriving in Paris for Fashion Week following the death of Olivier de la Fontaine, head of the fashion council… A vibrant, original film with glamorous actresses, viewing which will bring much enjoyment.
“The Devil Wears Prada“, 2006
This year, the cult film has garnered renewed attention, as the second part of “The Devil Wears Prada” will be released this spring. To recall, the first part of “The Devil Wears Prada” came out in 2006 and was based on Lauren Weisberger’s 2003 novel. Weisberger once worked as an assistant to Anna Wintour at the American Vogue editorial office, so the inspiration for her book was precisely the image of her former boss. The comedy, which depicted the editorial office of the glossy magazine Runway and its editor-in-chief, the ruthless Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), received widespread acclaim, and Meryl Streep won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical Film and was nominated for an Oscar. The film played a significant role in popularizing the fashion industry among a broad audience, and, let’s be honest, made working in a fashion magazine’s editorial office a dream for many girls and women who love fashion.
“Coco Before Chanel”, 2009
If you wish to delve into fashion history, it’s worth paying attention to the film “Coco Before Chanel” with Audrey Tautou’s brilliant performance as Coco Chanel. The picture tells the story of the period when Chanel was just taking her first steps as a seamstress, long before founding her own fashion house and forever changing the perception of modern women’s wardrobes.
This is a rare example of a biographical film about fashion. The movie delves into the designer’s inner world, presenting the viewer with a touching and honest portrait of a woman who managed to rethink femininity and leave behind a legacy that continues to define the style of entire generations. The film features exquisite cinematography, refined sets, and costumes by designer Catherine Leterrier – incidentally, it was her work that earned the film a César Award.
“The Dressmaker”, 2015
Myrtle Dunnage (Kate Winslet) returns to her provincial hometown in Australia – the place from which she was once expelled due to scandal and suspicion. For decades, the accusation of a classmate’s death lay on her name. Now, she is Tilly: different, stronger, sophisticated. She arrives as a couturier and a talented seamstress, and her striking entrance immediately draws the attention of the townspeople.
This comedic drama convincingly demonstrates: a dress is much more than just clothing. It is a weapon, a statement, a manifesto. By dressing the women of her town in luxurious attire, Tilly not only transforms their external appearance – she restores their dignity and confidence. But beneath the sparkle of the fabrics lies another motive – revenge against those who once broke her life. The film’s ending is particularly noteworthy – it is difficult to forget.
“Personal Shopper”, 2016
“Personal Shopper” is a psychological thriller by director Olivier Assayas, starring Kristen Stewart in the lead role, with clothing provided by the fashion house Chanel. Kristen, a muse to Karl Lagerfeld since the Métiers d’Art Paris 2013 show, plays the role of a personal dresser for a German supermodel and socialite, who is also haunted by the spirit of her deceased twin brother. Olivier Assayas received the award for Best Director at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival for this film.