For this year’s Forces of Fashion event on October 16, Vogue is celebrating the art, drama, and influence of the runway throughout history. In anticipation of the event, Vogue editors are sharing their favorite fictional fashion shows that have appeared in movies and television shows over the years. One standout example is the film Zoolander, which was released in 2001. Despite only being nine years old when it came out, the film immediately became a favorite for one editor. Growing up in rural Canada, the high-fashion world portrayed in Zoolander was a complete mystery, but the editor was captivated and enchanted by it. The satire-filled film follows the story of competing supermodels Derek and Hansel, played by Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson, as they navigate the challenges of the fashion industry. The absurd and theatrical catwalk scenes were particularly memorable, such as the dramatic walk-offs and the garbage-themed couture collection named “Derelicte” by the villainous Mugatu, played by Will Ferrell.
Another iconic fashion show featured in movies is the classic film The Devil Wears Prada, released in 2006. The film follows the story of Andy Sachs, played by Anne Hathaway, as she navigates the cutthroat world of fashion journalism while working as an assistant to powerful editor-in-chief Miranda Priestly, played by Meryl Streep. The standout fashion moment in the film is the Paris Fashion Week scene, where Miranda orchestrates an elaborate runway show featuring stunning couture designs. The scene perfectly captures the glamour and drama of the fashion industry, showcasing the power dynamics and competitive nature of the characters involved.
One of the most iconic television shows featuring fictional fashion shows is Sex and the City, which aired from 1998 to 2004. The series follows the lives of four fashion-forward women living in New York City as they navigate relationships, careers, and, of course, fashion. Throughout the series, there are numerous memorable fashion show scenes, including one where Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, struts down the runway in a stunning dress designed by her love interest, Aleksandr Petrovsky. The scene is a showcase of Carrie’s confidence and style, capturing the spirit of the character and the show as a whole.
In recent years, fictional fashion shows have become a popular theme in television shows, with many series featuring elaborate runway scenes. One notable example is the hit show Empire, which follows the dramatic lives of the Lyon family as they navigate the music and fashion industries. The show often features extravagant fashion show scenes, showcasing the cutting-edge designs and fierce competition among the characters. These fictional fashion shows add an element of excitement and glamour to the series, capturing the essence of the high-stakes world of fashion and entertainment.
Overall, fictional fashion shows in movies and television have become an integral part of storytelling, showcasing the glamour, drama, and creativity of the fashion industry. From iconic films like Zoolander and The Devil Wears Prada to beloved television shows like Sex and the City and Empire, these fictional fashion shows offer a glimpse into a world of luxury and sophistication. As Vogue celebrates the art and influence of the runway throughout history, it is clear that these fictional fashion shows have played a significant role in shaping our perception of the fashion industry and its impact on popular culture.
