Five movie tips for you to learn more about fashion.

Are you looking for movies and documentaries to stay informed about the history of fashion? We’ve selected 5 titles featuring artists and designers who have made their mark on the world with their art.

Wonder Boy

Nominated for the 2020 César Award for Best Documentary.

It tells the professional and personal journey of Olivier Rousteing, creative director of Balmain. In the documentary, Olivier reveals the sadness and anger in the search for his biological parents, the incessant pursuit of success, loneliness despite luxury, spotlights, and parties. 

The documentary directed by Parisian Anissa Bonnefont deconstructs the image of the designer who, at 25, took on the creative direction of one of the most traditional fashion houses in France. 

Where to watch: Netflix

Jeremy Scott: The People's Designer

Known for his irreverent creations, Jeremy Scott showcases his work in an eccentric way, often being controversial and winning over celebrities like Asap Rocky, Rita Ora, Rihanna, Katy Perry, and others.

The stylist's creative process is exposed in the film, making the story more interesting for fashion lovers.

“Jeremy Scott: The People’s Designer” was directed by Vlad Yudin in 2015 and reveals a side of the American fashion scene that had never been seen before. 

Where to watch: Netflix

Dior and I

The film depicts the first eight weeks of Belgian Raf Simons when he took on the role of designer at Dior. 

In 2011, the legendary Christian Dior company was shaken by the scandal caused by the racist and antisemitic remarks of its designer, John Galliano. Then, Raf Simons stepped in to take his place with the task of quickly presenting a new collection on the runway. 

Where to watch: AppleTv and YouTube Movies

McQueen

The documentary directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui portrays the life and work of British fashion designer Alexander McQueen, who began creating suits in a small town and became one of the most famous designers in the world, working with brands such as Givenchy and Gucci. 

Alexander McQueen was associated with a troubled artist: the desire to break paradigms and defy rules, mood variations, misunderstood works of his time, and his early death. 

In parallel, balance is achieved through another perspective on the artist, portrayed by his mother and friends, suggesting that he was a persona totally different from the kind subject they knew. 

Where to watch: Prime Video

Very Ralph: The Life and Work of Ralph Lauren

Directed by Susan Lacy, it tells how Ralph Lauren became a symbol of American style worldwide without any formal fashion education. 

The story of Ralph in fashion begins at the age of 20, working as a tie salesman for Beau Brummell, where he discovered his calling when he wanted to make a tie with his own specifications, becoming the first piece of clothing made by him. This was the beginning of it all. 

Where to watch: HBO Max

Text/Research: Vitor Queiroz