Fashion is not just clothing—it’s a statement, a time capsule, a form of storytelling. And where better to witness its magic than in movies and TV shows that have shaped, challenged, and celebrated style across decades? Some productions transport us into haute couture runways while others dissect subcultures that have revolutionized how we dress. These films and series are non-negotiable if you’re searching for fashion inspiration.
From iconic wardrobes that sparked global trends to subtle costume choices that defined characters, each title on this list offers more than just entertainment—it delivers a masterclass in style. Whether it’s the effortless cool of 2000s teen dramas, the sharp tailoring of political thrillers, or the avant-garde boldness of fashion biopics, these screen gems serve looks that continue to influence closets and catwalks alike.
Classic Elegance: The Silver Screen’s Enduring Style
#1. Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961):
Audrey Hepburn’s Holly Golightly turned the little black dress into a global fashion staple. Designed by Givenchy, her sleek column gown, oversized sunglasses, and pearl necklace remain one of the most imitated looks in film history. Even today, nearly 60 years later, searches for “Audrey Hepburn fashion” generate millions of results annually.
#2. Funny Face (1957):
Think The Devil Wears Prada but set in the golden age of Hollywood. Audrey Hepburn stars as a bookish intellectual swept into the dazzling world of Parisian fashion. This film, featuring Hubert de Givenchy’s designs and Richard Avedon cinematography, cemented Hepburn as a style icon and turned 1950s fashion into a visual spectacle.
The Power of the Designer Film
Whether you’re reading this from Norway, the UK, the USA, or even Singapore, the availability of some movies and TV shows on our list might vary depending on your region. But don’t worry; there’s an easy fix. With a reliable Android VPN, like VeePN, you can bypass regional restrictions and get full access to these fashion-filled gems, wherever you are.
#3. The Devil Wears Prada (2006):
Meryl Streep’s icy portrayal of Miranda Priestly—a character inspired by Vogue’s Anna Wintour—became legendary. Anne Hathaway’s character, initially unfashionable, undergoes a breathtaking transformation with pieces from Chanel, Valentino, and Prada. The film still influences fashion, with a reported 200% increase in searches for Prada accessories every fashion season.
#4. Phantom Thread (2017):
Daniel Day-Lewis plays a fictional 1950s London couturier whose obsession with perfection consumes him. Every fabric, every stitch tells a psychological story of control, power, and artistry. Unlike other fashion films that celebrate glamour, Phantom Thread delves into the industry’s darker side—obsession, manipulation, and the pressure to create.
Subculture & Street Style: Fashion Rebels on Screen
#5. Clueless (1995):
Cher Horowitz’s yellow plaid suit? Iconic. This film defined 1990s teen fashion—mini skirts, knee-high socks, and pastel cardigans. Costume designer Mona May rejected high-end designer labels, choosing instead to mix-and-match thrift store finds, proving that style isn’t about price tags—it’s about attitude.
#6. Sex and the City (1998-2004):
A cultural phenomenon that turned Carrie Bradshaw into a walking mood board for every aspiring fashionista. Costume designer Patricia Field revolutionized TV fashion, pairing luxury brands like Dior with quirky vintage finds. The result? Looks that still influence street style today. In 2021, resale platform Vestiaire Collective reported a 62% increase in searches for Manolo Blahnik heels—the Carrie effect remains strong.
#7. Gossip Girl (2007-2012, 2021 Reboot):
From Blair Waldorf’s signature headbands to Serena van der Woodsen’s effortlessly glamorous ensembles, Gossip Girl was a fashion explosion. Each character had a distinct style blueprint—preppy, bohemian, edgy—giving audiences a sartorial masterclass every episode. The reboot continues this legacy with Gen Z’s take on luxury fashion, featuring brands like Christopher John Rogers and LaQuan Smith.
Runways, Designers, and the Industry Itself
#8. Dior and I (2014):
A raw, behind-the-scenes look at the world of haute couture, this documentary follows Raf Simons as he steps in as Dior’s creative director. With only eight weeks to design his first collection, the film captures high fashion’s tension, artistry, and craftsmanship.
#9. Next in Fashion (2020-present):
Hosted by Alexa Chung and Tan France, this reality series is Project Runway on steroids. It showcases rising fashion designers competing to make a mark in an industry where innovation is everything. The show has introduced audiences to fresh talent who challenge the norms of fashion design.
Period Dramas with a Sartorial Edge
#10. Bridgerton (2020-present):
Regency-era fashion with a modern twist. Pastel-colored empire-waist gowns, corsetry, intricate embroidery—Bridgerton turned historical fashion into a viral trend. According to fashion marketplace Lyst, searches for corsets surged by 123% after the series premiered.
#11. The Great Gatsby (2013):
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s roaring ‘20s come to life through dazzling flapper dresses, sequined gowns, and sharply tailored suits. Prada collaborated with costume designer Catherine Martin to create the film’s wardrobe, bringing 1920s glamor to modern audiences.
Beyond Entertainment: The Influence of Fashion Films
Why do these movies and shows matter? Because fashion is more than fabric—it’s culture, history, and self-expression. Studies suggest that visual media significantly impact consumer trends, and with platforms like Instagram and TikTok, iconic film looks are being revived and reinterpreted in real time. From Hepburn’s chic minimalism to Bradshaw’s eclectic mix, fashion in film inspires, reinvents, and sets the stage for the trends we wear today.
So, what’s next on your watchlist?
Featured Image: IMDb
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