Have you ever wondered how designers prepare for shows? Or the life story of your favorite fashion icon? Luckily there are documentaries that answer these questions. From Raf Simons’ first ever couture show to the life of Iris Apfel, see a more personal side to the fashion industry with these documentaries.
Dries
Dries Van Noten can make loud colors and glittery pieces wearable. In an interview with Vogue he said, “We always say that fashion is a reflection of our times. Well, maybe it’s enough of that! Let’s do something optimistic, enjoy things—and really go for it.” In this documentary released last year, you will see his design process, how he prepares for runway shoes, and his inspiration. People in the industry also share their thoughts about the designer, like fashion icon Iris Apfel.
Manolo: The Boy Who Made Shoes for Lizards
Get to know the designer behind popular shoe designs like mules and kitten heels in this documentary. Here you will see how he sketches his designs and how hands-on he is in creating them. He even carves the heels himself. You’ll also see celebrities like Rihanna and Karlie Kloss gush about his shoes.
Dior and I
If you’re familiar with Raf Simons’ first couture show in 2012, you’ll enjoy this documentary. After being appointed the new creative director of Christian Dior, Raf had a difficult challenge ahead. Director Frederic Tcheng shared, “Up until that show day Still I could feel his emotions but wasn’t sure if they would come across. I really wanted an emotional dimension to the film.”
Just for Kicks
Fascinated with sneaker culture? See how it all came about in Just for Kicks. Sneaker collectors talk about the long lines they’ve waited in and how many pairs they have in their collection. Celebrities also share how they influenced the culture and how it has changed over the years.
Iris
For those who look up to Iris Apfel’s style, take some time to watch this film. Filmmaker Albert Maysles follows Iris around as she shops, interviews Iris and her husband, and gets a look at her massive jewelry collection. There’s even a scene where Iris interacts with Kanye West. Very interesting.
House of Z
Centered around the career of Zac Posen, “House of Z” shows his rise and fall, and comeback to the fashion world. According to Variety, it is “A wunderkind whose Icarus-like flight to the industry’s greatest heights was soon followed by a startling plummet back to earth, Posen proves an engaging vehicle for a look at art-world pitfalls.”
Franca: Chaos and Creation
Former editor-in-chief of Italian Vogue, Franca Sozzani was known for her controversial magazine covers and editorials. Her son, Fracesco Carrozzini decided to direct a documentary that gives an intimate look at hr life. Included are interviews with Karl Lagerfeld, Courtney Love, and Baz Luhrmann.
Maddman: The Steve Madden Story
Want to know how Steve Madden’s business started? Well, he worked at a shoe store. Eventually he started his own company and got financial backing from Jordan Belfort. Yes, the guy in Wolf of Wall Street. Watch how began and came back from a financial scandal.
Jeremy Scott: The People’s Designer
From dressing celebrities to fashion collaborations, Jeremy Scott has done it all. In this documentary you will see how he designed his first collection for Moschino, his collaborations with Adidas and the relationships he’s built with fashion stars like Rihanna, Katy Perry, and A$AP Rocky.
Art by Lara Intong
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