With ample amounts of free time this summer, I continually find myself pouring through Netflix or my local library to find some source of entertainment. For collegiettes™ looking for something centered around fashion, this might be a little more difficult as there isn’t as much media catering to the genre. Because of this, I’ve compiled a short list of fashion/style documentaries I have found myself captivated with while home for the summer. Hopefully, you’ll enjoy them just as much as I have!
The September Issue
R.J. Cutler does an amazing job with his documentary focused on Vogue’s famed September issue in 2007. Not only does this give a behind the scenes look to what goes into making an issue of the magazine, but it also captures a brief snapshot of an era once passed (pre-recession, over-the-top spending). This is a definite must-see for anyone interested in going into fashion-journalism or even fashion PR/marketing.
Valentino: The Last Emperor
After filming for close to two years, the filmmakers are able to give the audience a glimpse into one of the most important partnerships in the fashion world: the pairing of Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti. Throughout the documentary, we see them work together from beginning to end for events such as the 2006 S/S collection shown in Paris and the 2007 Valentino Retrospective.
Picture Me
Although I haven’t seen too much hype surrounding Picture Me, I would highly recommend this to anyone with an interest in modeling. The documentary follows Sara Ziff, as she models for top campaigns and runways shows. While it all seems like a glamorous lifestyle, Ziff also reveals her, and other models’, pitfalls like extreme stress to lose weight and to always look your best. (This documentary is available on Netflix Instant Watch!)
Bill Cunningham: New York
This one is not out on DVD yet (it will be on September 13th!) but if it is playing in a theater near you, definitely check it out (look at the film’s website for times and theaters). Bill Cunningham: New York is all about Bill Cunningham, New York Times photographer, who documents streetstyle around New York City and has been doing so for decades. The film chronicles his treks around the city while simultaneously delving into personal matters through interviews with him and some of his close friends.
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Already seen all of these? Some other great fashion documentaries to watch are Marc Jacobs & Louis Vuitton, Unzipped, and the Sundance Channel’s documentary series titled The Day Before.