Foreign films are a fantastic way to absorb culture and style from all over the globe. From the timeless classics to the modern day film festival standouts, there are endless opportunities to experience the fashion of otherwise unknown eras and places. There are hundreds of films with fashion that is to die for, but we’ve compiled a list of the five best foreign cinema extravaganzas that showcase undeniable style like nowhere else.
1) Coco Before Chanel (2009)
Ever since I visited Paris, I have been obsessed with Chanel, and with good reason. Her controversial style and fashion choices revolutionized the way women dressed, and her own unique brand of feminism still inspires girls all around the world today. Coco Before Chanel pays homage to her incredible life, and every shot is filled with examples of her life-changing brand.
It follows the story of small-town French orphan whose life, of trials and tribulations, has made way for one of the most influential women in history to evolve. She rejected the social and stylistic norms of the time and went on the create one of the most respected fashion houses ever known. It’s definitely a film that’s worth watching!
2) Isabel (1968)
This French Canadian epic is the story of a beautiful girl whose life quickly falls apart around her. After the death of her mother, she is forced to stay with her uncle and help with the housework. Unfortunately, her presence is looked on fearfully, and soon dark visions of her past begin tormenting both her and the rest of her family.
If you can get past the gore and suspense that categorizes this film, it’s also a beautiful example of ‘60s fashion and a great inspiration for vintage lovers everywhere. The gorgeous lead actor, Genevieve Bujold, has been a fashion icon in her own right throughout her life, and this film marks the beginning of her early career as a fashionista!
3) Farewell, My Queen (2012)
No one could do fashion and dressing up as well as the bourgeoisie of the French revolution. Farewell, My Queen is the epic retelling of the Marie Antoinette saga and the downfall of the French aristocracy. As well as being historical fascinating, it also showcases the most beautiful and intricate dresses and headpieces. As the birthplace of costume jewellery, every scene will have you itching to stock up on dripping pearl necklaces and bouffant wigs.
Antoinette herself was also well known for her vast and eclectic shoe collection, which is also displayed beautifully throughout the film. Sure, we’re not about to return to the time of suffocating corsets and cumbersome hoop skirts, but there are still loads of great fashion tips to be picked up while watching!
4) The Bitter Tears Of Petra Von Kant (1972)
This extravaganza looks into the weird and wonderful world of fashion culture in 1970s West Germany. Petra herself is an acclaimed fashion designer, and the majority of the action takes place in her uniquely styled bedroom. The story follows her string of complicated and passionate relationships as she aims to make sense of the vibrant and colorful world that surrounds her.
Her bright red wig and wicked dress sense is noted continuously throughout and, along with all the supporting characters, showcases the effervescent styles of the decade. No matter who you are, this film is sure to have you throwing on your best ‘70s dress and heading out on the town!
5) The New Sovereignty (2015)
Although not a feature-length film, The New Sovereignty deserves a mention. The film was the winner of best fashion at the International Fashion Film Awards 2015 and is an incredible testimony to how fashion and cinema come hand in hand. The story looks at a world where women are in charge, and the sleek, effortless style of the main characters does more than enough solidify these ideas.
With a couture twist to typical high street fashion, these filmmakers more than deserve the numerous awards they’ve received globally for this short, but impacting, piece of cinema.
Some of these films may be difficult to access, so if you’re having trouble finding them online, then you can always use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Installing a VPN means you can view content from all over the world, so it’s perfect for sites like Netflix and Hulu, whose library changes depending on location. Check out this Netflix guide from Secure Thoughts for more information. Happy watching!
Do you know of any more foreign films that are just oozing with style? Be sure to leave a comment below and share your ideas with us!
About the Author: Cassie is an entertainment blogger and fashion addict. When she’s not flicking through the pages of magazines, she is scouring Netflix for great new films to watch. She loves sharing her favorite finds with others.
