Fashion is more than just clothes and accessories. It is a form of art, expression, culture and history. Fashion documentaries can offer a glimpse into the fascinating world of fashion, from the creative minds behind the designs to the social and environmental impacts of the industry. Whether you are a fashion lover, a curious observer or a critic, there is a fashion documentary for you. Here are some of the best fashion documentaries to watch now.

The September Issue (2009)

This documentary follows the legendary editor-in-chief of Vogue magazine, Anna Wintour, and her team as they prepare for the most important issue of the year: the September issue. The film reveals the behind-the-scenes drama, pressure and creativity that go into producing the iconic fashion magazine. It also features interviews with some of the most influential designers, models and celebrities in the fashion world, such as Karl Lagerfeld, Vera Wang, Jean Paul Gaultier and Sienna Miller.

Dior and I (2014)

This documentary chronicles the debut collection of Raf Simons as the artistic director of Christian Dior in 2012. The film captures the challenges, tensions and triumphs of Simons and his dedicated staff as they work under a tight deadline to create a stunning haute couture collection that honors the legacy of Dior while reflecting Simons’ modern vision. The film also explores the history and craftsmanship of the legendary fashion house, as well as the personal stories and emotions of Simons and his collaborators.

McQueen (2018)

This documentary is a tribute to the life and work of Alexander McQueen, one of the most innovative and influential fashion designers of all time. The film traces McQueen’s rise from a humble tailor’s apprentice to a global superstar, who revolutionized the fashion industry with his daring and provocative creations. The film also delves into McQueen’s dark and troubled side, as he struggled with depression, addiction and suicide. The film features archival footage, interviews with McQueen’s friends and family, and stunning visuals of his runway shows.

The True Cost (2015)

This documentary exposes the harsh realities of the fast fashion industry, which produces cheap and disposable clothing at the expense of human rights and environmental sustainability. The film investigates the global impact of fast fashion on workers, consumers, communities and the planet. It also showcases the efforts of activists, designers and consumers who are trying to change the system and create a more ethical and sustainable fashion industry.

Iris (2014)

This documentary celebrates the life and style of Iris Apfel, a 93-year-old fashion icon who is known for her eclectic and eccentric outfits. The film follows Apfel as she travels, shops, attends events and shares her wisdom and humor with the world. The film also explores Apfel’s remarkable career as an interior designer, businesswoman and muse for artists and designers. The film is a testament to Apfel’s creativity, individuality and joie de vivre.

Unzipped (1995)

This documentary is a candid and humorous look at the creative process of Isaac Mizrahi, one of the most celebrated American fashion designers in the 1990s. The film follows Mizrahi as he prepares for his fall 1994 collection, inspired by Nanook of the North, a 1922 documentary about Eskimos. The film captures Mizrahi’s personality, humor and passion for fashion, as well as his interactions with his staff, models, celebrities and critics.

Bill Cunningham New York (2010)

This documentary is a portrait of Bill Cunningham, a legendary street photographer who documented the fashion trends and social scenes of New York City for decades. The film follows Cunningham as he rides his bicycle around Manhattan, snapping pictures of people’s outfits with his camera. The film also reveals Cunningham’s personal life, his humble living conditions, his dedication to his work and his love for New York City.

Valentino: The Last Emperor (2008)

This documentary is an intimate and glamorous look at Valentino Garavani, one of the most successful and influential fashion designers of all time. The film covers the final two years of Valentino’s career before his retirement in 2008. It shows Valentino’s creative genius, his lavish lifestyle, his loyal friendship with his partner Giancarlo Giammetti, his adorable pugs and his emotional farewell to the fashion world.

Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel (2011)

This documentary is a tribute to Diana Vreeland, one of the most influential and visionary fashion editors of the 20th century. The film chronicles Vreeland’s extraordinary life and career, from her childhood in Paris to her work at Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue magazines, to her role as a curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The film features interviews with Vreeland’s family, friends, colleagues and admirers, as well as archival footage, photographs and excerpts from Vreeland’s memoirs.

The Gospel According to André (2017)

This documentary is a profile of André Leon Talley, one of the most influential and flamboyant figures in the fashion industry. The film explores Talley’s life and career, from his humble beginnings in North Carolina to his rise to fame as a fashion journalist, editor and icon. The film also examines Talley’s cultural impact, his personal struggles and his relationship with fashion legends such as Anna Wintour, Karl Lagerfeld and Marc Jacobs.