Knowledge is key if you want success in this industry, knowing as many facts and stories about the past and present of the fashion industry will help you immensely in your career. I find the most inspirational stories come from books or documentaries and they give you an inside look on what to expect. The documentaries below are some of my favourites and gave me motivation to keep working towards my goals, it’s enlightening to see most success comes from adversity. Grab some coffee and a blanket and enjoy these films!
The September Issue
This wonderful film gives you an inside look at Vogue Magazine. It follows the team amd Amma Wintour around as they work to publish their largest issue for the September 2007 issue. If you’re looking at a career in fashion journalism or wanting to work for a fashion magazine this film will be a great watch for you.
The First Monday in May
If you’re a fan of the annual Met Gala then you will love this movie. It shows you a behind the scenes look at the Met Gala and all the work that goes into creating an extraordinary event. Again it gives you a glimpse of what it’s like working at Vogue and with the notorious Anna Wintour.
Mademoiselle C
Making its debut in 2013 this film highlights the amazing career of former Editor Carine Roitfeld at Vogue Paris. Similar to “The September Issue” this film gives you an inside look at Vogue and what goes into working at a fashion magazine. The movie also take you along on Roitfeld’s journey to creating and launching her book.
Franca: Chaos and Creation
Another insightful film of yet another incredible past Editor, Franca Sozzani, at Italian Vogue. Those wanting to be an innovator and trailblazer will find this film fascinating as it highlights this fashion-world provocateur’s life and career at Vogue.
House of Z
Following the life and the rise and fall of fashion designer, Zac Posen, it gives you a story that will inspire any aspiring designers and will show you that sometimes not everything will come easy and how fast your dream job could get away from you. Even if you’re not an aspiring designer this film gives you an insightful perspective of the industry.
Maddman: The Steve Madden Story
This film shares the story of the head of the billion-dollar footwear designer, Steve Madden, and his life and career. From going to jail to rebuilding his empire again, this film will motivate you till the very end and gives you an incredible story of a very talented individual.
The True Cost
Very different from the other documentaries listed, The True Cost gives you an in-depth analysis on how the fashion industry impacts the environment and how we can create a more sustainable industry. I believe this film is important for any new-comers of the industry to watch so they can have a better understanding on the negative effects this industry has in order to help it move forward in a positive manner.
Some other honorable mentions are; In Vogue: The Editor’s Eye, Dries, Jeremy Scott: The People’s Designer, Dior and I, Manolo: The Man Who Made Shoes For Lizards.
