By Rhiannon Bamford-Punchen
@stylebyrhiannon
Although they might not all be true to life, these films gave us a glimpse of the glamour of the fashion industry and likely ignited many of our aspirations. Some more realistic then others, by watching these films we get an insight we might not have seen before.
The Devil Wears Prada:
Most people who dream of pursuing fashion have likely seen The Devil Wears Prada. One of the first films to really discuss the fashion industry in depth, the film followers a journalist graduate aching to write respectable pieces who accidentally falls into the vapid world of Fashion Magazines. It is assumed that the character of Miranda Priestly is loosely based off Vogue Editor in Chief Anna Wintour, and whilst it’s not a particularly flattering comparison. Miranda’s cut throat attitude and passion for her magazine make her one of the most interesting and memorable characters. Starring Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway and Emily Blunt.
The Neon Demon:
Although parts of this are straight up horror (although I won’t spoil it for you), several of the hurdles our protagonist goes through are real life problems for young models. A photographer asking you to pose naked, an agent asking you to lie about your age and terrible unhealthy, competition between models. Starring Elle Fanning, Christina Hendricks and real life supermodel Abby Lee Kershaw, this film takes a deeper look into the darker sides of the modelling industry, discussing many of the problems that have been ignored and normalised previously.
Coco Before Chanel:
An in depth look at the designer who started a revolution. Changing the definition of sophistication, this film is a beautiful look at the life of Coco Chanel based on a true story. Although its unlikely all of it is true to life, it is a really wonderful look at the fashion of the 1910’s and how influential she was at shaping the fashion industry.
Funny Face:
Iconic! This film started the dream of being ‘discovered’ for so many young women. A photographer finds a young woman working in a book-shop and believes she can ‘make it’ as a top model, taking her to Paris and photographing her in some of the most beautiful Parisian landmarks. Realistic? Not particularly, but it’s a look at the modelling industry through rose tinted glasses of the 1950s. Audrey Hepburn, fashion and Paris? What more could you want?!
Gia:
‘Gia’ tells the story of 80’s fashion model Gia Carangi, The Worlds First Supermodel’. Played by Angelina Jolie this film is tragically beautiful, it shows the closeness and friendship many models have with their agents, and the terrible effects the modelling industry can have on a young woman. We are shown how difficult the industry was in the 1980’s and perhaps to show gratitude at the improvement of model conditions.
