The world of fashion is not just about glitz and glamour; it's a realm of fierce competition, creativity, and personal stories that inspire and sometimes shock. This curated list of biopics delves into the lives of fashion icons, designers, and models, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the fashion shows that have shaped the industry. From the rise of legendary designers to the personal struggles of models, these films provide a rich tapestry of fashion history, making them a must-watch for anyone fascinated by the world of haute couture.

Valentino: The Last Emperor (2008)
Description: A look at the life of Valentino Garavani, focusing on his final couture collection and the preparation for his fashion shows, offering a glimpse into the world of high fashion.
Fact: The film was shot over two years, capturing the emotional and professional highs and lows of Valentino's career.


Bill Cunningham New York (2010)
Description: While not about fashion shows per se, this documentary follows street photographer Bill Cunningham, whose work captured the essence of fashion in New York, including the shows.
Fact: Cunningham's famous "On the Street" column in The New York Times was a major influence on fashion trends.


Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel (2011)
Description: This film captures the life of Diana Vreeland, the legendary fashion editor, whose influence on fashion shows and the industry as a whole was monumental.
Fact: Vreeland's famous quote, "Fashion is part of the daily air and it changes all the time, with all the events," is a recurring theme in the documentary.


The True Cost (2015)
Description: While not strictly a biopic, this documentary explores the fashion industry's impact on people and the planet, including the behind-the-scenes of fashion shows, highlighting the human cost of fast fashion.
Fact: The film features interviews with fashion insiders, activists, and workers, providing a comprehensive look at the industry's darker side.


The First Monday in May (2016)
Description: This documentary follows the creation of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's annual Costume Institute Gala, showcasing the preparation for one of the most prestigious fashion shows of the year.
Fact: The film captures the tension and creativity behind the scenes, including the collaboration between fashion and art.


McQueen (2018)
Description: This biopic explores the life and work of Alexander McQueen, known for his dramatic fashion shows that were as much performance art as they were fashion.
Fact: The film includes never-before-seen footage and interviews with McQueen's closest friends and colleagues.


Unzipped (1995)
Description: A documentary that follows designer Isaac Mizrahi during the creation of his fall 1994 fashion show, offering a humorous and intimate look at the fashion world.
Fact: The film was one of the first to give an insider's perspective on the fashion industry, making it a groundbreaking documentary.


Lagerfeld Confidential (2007)
Description: This film delves into the life of Karl Lagerfeld, capturing his preparation for Chanel's fashion shows and his unique approach to fashion.
Fact: Lagerfeld was initially reluctant to participate but eventually allowed unprecedented access to his life.


The September Issue (2009)
Description: This documentary gives an insider's view of Vogue's legendary editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour, as she prepares the magazine's most important issue of the year, showcasing the high-stakes world of fashion shows.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of a single issue, but it evolved into a broader exploration of Wintour's influence on fashion.


Iris (2014)
Description: This documentary focuses on Iris Apfel, a fashion icon known for her unique style and her involvement in fashion shows, showcasing her influence on the industry.
Fact: At 93, Iris Apfel became the oldest person to have a Barbie doll made in her image, celebrating her unique fashion sense.
