Exploring the Intersection of Fashion and Cinema at the Sydney Film Festival
This June, the Sydney Film Festival will present a unique and thought-provoking program titled Sartorial: Fashion on Film. This curated strand will explore the deep and often overlooked connection between fashion and cinema, offering audiences a fresh perspective on how clothing influences and shapes the narratives of film.
Sartorial: Fashion on Film is the first announced section of the 2026 festival, featuring a mix of new film premieres, classic cinema, and documentaries. The program aims to showcase how fashion has been an integral part of cinematic storytelling, from the earliest days of film to modern-day productions.
New Film Premieres
One of the highlights of the Sartorial: Fashion on Film lineup is the documentary Marc by Sofia, directed by Sofia Coppola. This film marks her debut as a documentary filmmaker and offers an intimate look into the life and work of her long-time friend, designer Marc Jacobs. Through this film, viewers will gain insight into the creative process behind some of the most iconic designs in contemporary fashion.
Another standout is the world premiere of the Australian short film French Girls, directed by Hyun Lee. The film follows a young woman who is scouted for the modelling industry and must navigate its ever-changing expectations and pressures. It promises to be a compelling exploration of the challenges faced by those entering the world of fashion.
Classic Documentaries and Films
In addition to new films, the Sartorial: Fashion on Film program will also feature a selection of classic documentaries and films that have contributed to the dialogue between fashion and cinema.
Model, directed by Frederick Wiseman, is a landmark documentary that offers a behind-the-scenes look at a New York modelling agency. It captures the intense and demanding nature of the industry, from castings to shoots, providing a rare glimpse into the world of image-making.
Useless, directed by Jia Zhangke, is a documentary that explores the human cost of industrial production within China’s garment industry. From factory floors to haute couture runways, the film sheds light on the people behind the clothes we wear.
Jane B. par Agnès V., directed by Agnès Varda, is a playful and unconventional portrait of actress, designer, and singer Jane Birkin. The film blends personal anecdotes with artistic expression, highlighting the intersection of fashion and identity.
Notebook on Cities and Clothes, directed by Wim Wenders, delves into the creativity and authorship of designer Yohji Yamamoto. The documentary draws parallels between filmmaking and fashion, illustrating how both industries rely on vision and innovation.
Prêt-à-Porter, directed by Robert Altman, is a comedy set during Paris Fashion Week. It satirises the fashion world while offering a humorous take on the industry’s eccentricities.
Insights from the Festival Organisers
According to SFF Senior Programmer Jessica Moraza, the relationship between fashion and film goes beyond traditional fashion documentaries. “In this special series, we wanted to highlight instances where some of cinema’s most distinctive directors have brought their singular perspective to the fashion world,” she explains.
The Sydney Film Festival 2026 will take place across Sydney from 3 to 14 June. With a diverse lineup of films and events, the festival promises to be a celebration of creativity, artistry, and the enduring connection between fashion and cinema.
