7 Fashion-Packed Movies to Check Out While Self Isolating

Does anyone know what day of quarantine this is? I’ve lost track of the days. So, in such trying times, I try to find the silver lining in being cooped up at home. Enter good ‘ol movies!

Watching movies is one of my favorite hobbies, but I don’t just watch movies to stay occupied for 2 hours. When I turn on a film, I prepare my mind and my spirit to be inspired in some way. Not only am I keeping up with the plot, but I’m also scanning outfits, listening to the music that is showcased throughout (hey, Shazam!) and taking note of the dialogue as well. In order to keep creative juices flowing, I resort to indulging in other artistic venues.

Today, after years of enduring movie after movie, I’ve discovered 7 films that are near and dear to my heart, when it comes to wardrobe inspiration. Keep reading to learn more about them!

Waiting to Exhale (1995)

In his feature film directorial debut, Forrest Whitaker breathes life into a quintessential film adapted from a Terry McMillan novel, called Waiting to Exhale. This iconic gem follows four, successful Black women in their quest for love, happiness and purpose.

Not only is it the perfect combination of sass, 90’s nostalgia and life lessons, but the styling throughout is sartorial gold. From Robin’s jaw-dropping linen, diamond cutout dress to Bernadine’s ultra-lux, frocks, these women were the epitome of class and elegance. Sidenote: Also, be on the lookout for some bomb, throwback accessories.

The Devil Wear Prada (2006)

The Devil Wears Prada is the film that I attribute to my immediate infatuation with style. I fell in love with the fantasy of a small-town girl evolving into a fashion powerhouse, in what seemed to be, an overnight transition. As a journalist, it was also exciting to witness Hollywood’s take on the operation and execution of the wildly-successful fictional magazine, Runway. The firm yet entertaining editor-in-chief, Miranda Priestly, tapped me with all kinds of life featuring her endless supply of coveted designer duds as well as her iconic one-liners including the hard-hitting punt, “Florals? For Spring? Groundbreaking.” You can’t top that!

Love Jones (1997)

Love Jones is undefeated in the realm of Black cinema. If you’re a lover of smooth spoken word, a realistic love story and that unforgettable 90’s minimalist aesthetic, then this one’s for you. Although Love Jones isn’t technically meant to be a “fashion movie”, one can’t help but admire the beauty behind each character’s no-fuss approach to their looks. Nina Mosley is my muse for all 2020.

In addition to a seductively intoxicating soundtrack, director Theodore Witcher does an impeccable job of painting the picture of what Black love entails, from all perspectives of the culture.

Sex and the City (1 & 2)

I’ve been a dedicated fan of Sex and the City since my college days. I stumbled upon the television series, as they were consistently re-aired on E!. Carrie instantly became my spirit animal; her fearlessness in combining pieces that were considered unconventional yet eclectic sparked a creative fire.

As I became more enthralled with her memorable girl squad, which includes Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte, an entire world of high-end fashion designers were introduced to me. Bask in this pick for unparalleled visual decadence and tons of outfit inspo. Thank me later.

Marie Antoinette (2006)

Sofia Coppola’s adaptation of 2006’s Marie Antoinette presented me with an appreciation for fashion in the 1700’s. Yes, of course, with the first mention of “royalty”, the immediate thoughts that pop into our heads are extravagant crowns, stiff personalities and power beyond belief. But, Coppola turned these stereotypes onto their heads and created her own version of a pivotal story spotlighting a young girl who became queen at the tender age of 19 years old.

This body of work follows Marie Antoinette’s journey from the time she is crowned Queen of France until the time of her unforgettable demise. Aspects of playfulness, gushing youth and over-the-top exuberance are the underlying tones also reflected within the style selections of the film; an intriguing journey to fully embracing womanhood is also highlighted.

The Great Gatsby (2013)

What fashion film list would be complete without The Great Gatsby? Based on the 1925 novel from F. Scott Fitzgerald, this pick has stood the test of time and, in my opinion, is one of the best pieces of literature. The movie, however, takes artistic expression to an elevated and refined level, truly innovation at its finest. With an all-star cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Carey Mulligan and Tobey Maguire, you won’t be able to peel your eyes from the slickly spectacular, modern musings of director, Baz Luhrmann.

And, those are my picks for fashion-packed movies to binge while you’re self isolating! Yes, I kept this list short, but I will definitely follow up with additional films to grant you that extra bit of inspo. In the meantime, what are some of your personal recommendations? Comment below!

*Photo Credits: Amazon, Park Circus, Time, The Business of Fashion, IMDb, Telegraph, and Just Watch. I do not own the rights to these photographs.

“Create your own style… let it be unique for yourself and yet identifiable for others.”

-Anna Wintour