Cover Still from ‘Who is Sabato de Sarno? A Gucci Story’ (Photo: Mubi)
Still from ‘Who is Sabato de Sarno? A Gucci Story’ (Photo: Mubi)
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Looking to unleash your hidden artistry? These quintessential fashion documentaries are sure to inspire
Who exactly is Sabato de Sarno? What goes into the making behind the glossy pages of a fashion magazine? The world of style is notoriously private and only a selected few are privileged enough to be granted access behind its closed doors. Very rarely are we outsiders a allowed to peek into the hidden lives of these fashion houses, not to mention the intricate processes behind some of their iconic pieces, shows, campaigns and how their run their ateliers.
Many personalities in the fashion world have endeavoured to pull the curtain back and allow us a sneak peek into their inner makings.
From origin stories to behind-the-scenes scoops, we’ve curated a selection of must-watch fashion documentaries sure to coax out your creative side and inspire your hidden artistry.
More from Tatler: At Fauré Le Page, all’s fair in love and war
Who is Sabato de Sarno? A Gucci Story (2024)
In this 20-minute short film, we are introduced to Sabato de Sarno, the newly appointed creative director of Gucci, as he emerges from the shadows of his predecessors Alessandro Michele and Tom Ford. Brand ambassador Paul Mescal narrates this compelling tale, complete with never-before-seen footage showcasing the creation of the Gucci Ancora fashion show, De Sarno's debut show.
Read more: Sabato de Sarno presents his inaugural collection as creative director of Gucci in Singapore
Martin Margiela: In His Own Words (2019)
This documentary offers a rare insight into the life of notorious recluse Martin Margiela and the eponymous brand he helmed for 20 years. The designer never shows his face on screen and instead, viewers are made aware of his presence with his soft-spoken voice and intimate shots of his hands fiddling with thread and toying with seams. Leading fashion figures such as Jean-Paul Gaulthier and Carine Roitfeld provide commentary on the mystery behind the Margiela magic.
See also: Maison Margiela and Gentle Monster reunite for a second chapter in their futuristic love story
Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist (2018)
The unapologetically punk Dame Vivienne Westwood takes centre stage in this remarkable documentary chronicling her both illustrious and subversive career. Westwood maintains that more than a designer, she is a disruptor and an activist, whose powerful vision proves that she will forever be a fixture in the fashion industry.
See also: 5 times Juergen Teller’s work provoked, enthralled and blazed the course of fashion photography
The Gospel According to Andre (2017)
Legendary fashion editor André Leon Talley traces his life story from growing up in the segregated American South to becoming one of the most influential and barrier-breaking style curators of all time. The documentary is the tale of Talley's ascension through the predominantly white ranks, defying prejudice and obscurity while developing his discerning eye for fashion.
The Boy Who Made Shoes For Lizards (2017)
Donning a pair of Manolo Blahnik shoes can be regarded as the ultimate status symbol. However, the modest man behind the million-dollar name humbly describes himself as a mere cobbler. This colourful documentary recounts Blahnik’s hands-on approach to his design process, replete with commentary from Anna Wintour, Rihanna and Naomi Campbell, among other fashion personalities who sing his praises.
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About
Julianna has been interested in leading a literary life since she first read Frances Hodgson Burnett's A Little Princess at eight. Before working with Tatler, she was an archive intern at The Center for Fiction in Brooklyn, New York. She is a textbook Pisces who devotes most of her spare time to her crochet projects, watching classic films, and going through her never-ending pile of unread books. She studied creative writing, global literature and art history at Sarah Lawrence College, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2022. Toni Morrison, Nora Ephron, Clarice Lispector and Jia Tolentino are among her all-time favourite writers.
Work
Julianna writes about fashion, beauty, sustainability, and the arts. She is always keen on conducting interviews with talented women who are changing the game in their respective fields.
For event invites and story leads, hit her up at julianna.cabili@tatlerasia.com
