fashion documentaries to watch
behind-the-scenes insights and craftsmanship
Last night, I watched the Oscar de la Renta documentary and felt inspired to share some documentaries and behind-the-scenes videos that I believe are worth watching. Some are longer, while others are just short formats, but all of them give insight into the detailed craftsmanship involved in fashion. It amazes me how many hands and how much time it takes to create a design—it's truly a work of patience. Seeing each step in detail, from the initial sketch to the final garment, has made me perceive fashion in a whole new way.
Before moving to New York City, I didn’t have an in-depth understanding of fashion designers. However, working in the industry and interacting with a diverse range of brands—from fast fashion to luxury—led me to explore more closely, learning about fabrications, sizes, fits, and other details. This experience not only broadened my knowledge but also deepened my appreciation for the process of creation.
I curated 10 videos that deepened my connection with fashion and shifted my perspective on its collaborative nature:
1. A Sense of Beauty - A Documentary Film by Oscar de la Renta
This documentary popped up unexpectedly in my suggestions and inspired me to create this article. It explores the creation of Oscar de la Renta’s Pre-Fall 2024 collection, showcasing every step—from the development of patterns and prints to the presentation of the final collection. The film also highlights the extensive team involved—from Brooklyn artists to embroiderers in India and production factories in Italy. Witnessing how various mediums come together to create something beautiful was truly enlightening.
2. How Simone Rocha's Hometowns Inspire Her Design | i-D Hometown
Watching this video while traveling to my hometown in Brazil was a pivotal moment for me. Seeing how Simone Rocha draws inspiration from her hometown deeply resonated and reignited my connection with fashion. Her designs blend romantic and edgy elements with intricate details and bold textures. This video inspired me to create something with my mom, who taught me the basics of sewing. Our project—a skirt—evoked memories of childhood visits to fabric stores and the ambition to design my own clothes. Rocha’s pieces felt like art, balancing delicacy with power and showcasing impeccable craftsmanship.
3. Follow Head of Atelier, Judy Halil, as She Gives a Step-by-Step Demonstration for McQueen Roses
Alexander McQueen has always been one of my favorite fashion houses. Known for their dramatic couture flair, their designs blend bold silhouettes with intricate craftsmanship. A visit to their Soho flagship store recently impressed me with its curated ambiance and designs. The video featuring Judy Halil showcases the meticulous process behind the McQueen Roses collection, reflecting the brand’s dedication to artistry and precision.
The PROCESS series, featuring twelve artists inspired by the Autumn/Winter 2022 women’s pre-collection, further illustrates how creativity emerges from diverse perspectives. I particularly enjoyed Guinevere Van Seenus’s episode, capturing McQueen’s essence with her description of the designs as embodying “a desire to be gorgeous and beautiful but also… kick ass at the same time.”
4. Marine Serre Regenerated - Crochet Spring/Summer 2023
I was immediately drawn to this video because of my love for innovative fashion. Marine Serre’s regenerative design approach is both refreshing and thought-provoking. Her brand had already impressed me with its logo—a standout example of creating a memorable symbol. On the brands YouTube channel, a collection of short clips reveals the making of pieces like the diamond pullover and tin moon earrings. These clips highlight Serre’s commitment to upcycling, blending high fashion with eco-consciousness in a truly groundbreaking way.
5. "Making of" OFF-WHITE | MENS Spring-Summer 2018/2019 Full Fashion Show "TEMPERATURE"
Watching this video with a friend made a lasting impression on me. It details the process behind the OFF-WHITE | MENS Spring-Summer 2018/2019 Fashion Show 'TEMPERATURE,' offering more than just a look at the garments. The video provides an immersive experience, highlighting Virgil Abloh’s meticulous attention to detail from start to finish. His innovative approach challenges traditional luxury norms and redefines our understanding of style and its cultural impact.
6. Molly Goddard 22S4 | Behind the Scenes
This short video offers a glimpse into the whimsical world of Molly Goddard. The blend of photography, cellphone footage, and ambient sounds highlights the playful nature of her designs. Observing the spontaneous behind-the-scenes moments deepened my appreciation for Goddard’s ability to merge fantasy with fashion. Her bold, voluminous silhouettes, vibrant colors, and unique textures made me see fashion as a medium for personal expression and creativity.
7. The Making of the Dior Spring-Summer 2023 Haute Couture Collection
This behind-the-scenes video gave me a fascinating look at Dior’s artistry. Seeing the intricate embroidery and unique fabrics, like the 'deep black quilted style honeycomb fabric,' made me appreciate the meticulous detail involved in each piece. The way Dior blends classic elegance with a modern twist deepened my understanding of their craftsmanship. It highlighted how every stitch and texture contributes to the balance between tradition and innovation.
8. Stories Behind HOMME PLISSÉ ISSEY MIYAKE "PLAYGROUNDS" Documentary
This documentary offers a rich and dynamic experience behind Homme Plissé 'Playgrounds' by Issey Miyake, blending dance, fashion, sport, and rhythm with shapes, textures, and colors. Miyake’s use of sculptural forms and cutting-edge technology in his designs shifted my perspective on fashion, revealing it as both a spectacle and an art form. The unique fabrics and dynamic shapes made me see fashion as not only visually striking but also timeless and versatile.
9. Documenting our East London Studio and Soho Flagship Store
This short video perfectly captures Studio Nicholson's minimalist yet elegant essence. My first encounter with the brand was through a pair of cotton twill trousers I discovered while working at Beacon’s Closet. The exceptional quality and attention to detail captivated me, deepening my appreciation for Studio Nicholson’s clean and sophisticated designs. I wish there were a video that delved more into their creative process, as you can truly feel the high quality of their designs. Nonetheless, it's still worth watching.
10. FARM Rio 25 anos de alegria
This video doesn’t dive deep into the entire process, but it provides a brief look at the team behind Farm Rio and the creation of the vibrant prints and immersive real-life experiences. Known for its bold patterns and joyful spirit, Farm Rio truly captures the essence of Rio de Janeiro and Brazilian culture. Working closely with the brand to bring their lifestyle to New York gave me insight into the effort behind their high-quality aesthetic. Experiencing the Soho flagship store—with its sand, plants, and embroidered birds—and the main office in Rio de Janeiro, styled to reflect the brand’s energy, only deepened my appreciation for their passion and dedication.
There are definitely more videos showcasing fashion craftsmanship and immersive experiences that I haven’t mentioned here. This selection is just what I remembered off the top of my head. If you know of any other interesting ones, I’d love to hear about them.
Thanks for reading all the way through!
Much love,
Leticia Ferraz