Top 10 Best Fashion Reality TV Shows of All Time
#10: “The Hype” (2021-)
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Design competition series don’t always give streetwear its due. This HBO Max reality show stands out for its focus on the genre and its roots at the intersection of music, fashion, and commerce. Alongside a panel of “co-signers” including Beyoncé stylist Marni Senofonte and Migos’ Offset, heavy-hitting guest judges like Cardi B, Wiz Khalifa, and A$AP Ferg weigh in on the contestants’ creations. The stakes are high, and contestants don’t always play nice - which makes for a deliciously juicy viewing experience. But just as importantly, the show also functions as a primer about the history, meaning, and boundaries of streetwear.
#9: “Making the Cut” (2020-)
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Heidi Klum and Tim Gunn of “Project Runway” put their talents to good use on this Amazon original series. Designers from around the world are challenged with a variety of prompts and must simultaneously produce runway-ready and more accessible garments. From themed couture to marketing campaigns and pop up shops, the artists’ versatility is put to the test. With the likes of Naomi Campbell and Jeremy Scott serving as judges, viewers hear exacting opinions on the contestants’ creations that carry real-world weight. To make matters even more exciting, there is a whopping $1 million dollar prize on the line. Under intense pressure comes pure inventiveness, and the show is bound to get creative juices flowing for even the least fashionable among us.
#8: “Styling Hollywood” (2019)
In a genre chock-full of modeling and design competitions, this show is a refreshing departure. The docu-series follows JSN Studio creative director Jason Bolden, whose company provides celebrity styling and interior design services to a slew of high-profile clients. If the red carpet-worthy garments weren’t enough, we’re also treated to a deep dive into Jason’s relationship with his husband and business partner Adair Curtis. With stars like Janet Mock, Eve, and Ava DuVernay relying on his expertise, Bolden is pushed to his limit and tensions in his inner circle sometimes run high. But aside from being a riveting watch, “Styling” also has the distinction of being the first-ever reality series to focus on a Black gay male couple.
#7: “Stylish with Jenna Lyons” (2020-)
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As the former creative director for J. Crew, Lyons is undoubtedly a recognizable face in the fashion world. So it makes sense that a chance to work for the maven’s first business would attract a talented crop of creatives across disciplines. Fusing the docu-series and competition genres, the show follows Lyons as she interviews associates and challenges them with shopping, styling, and interior decorating tasks. As the prospective hires tackle assignments big and small, it’s always fascinating to see Lyons elaborate on her personal approach to design. With the show’s star providing tips for viewers to make their lives a touch more chic, it’s an educational experience, too.
#6: “Next in Fashion” (2020)
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This Netflix original aired for only one season, but it was absolute fun while it lasted. With a classic fashion competition format, the show pitted an international group of designers who had already dressed the likes of Beyoncé, Fergie, and Rita Ora against one another. However, in a unique twist, the contestants were made to pair up as they navigated challenges themed around denim, suits, streetwear, and more. With the competitors having to reconcile their differing aesthetics while keeping their eye on the prize of cash and a collection for Net-a-Porter, it was a binge-worthy yet thoughtful viewing experience. And with the likes of “Queer Eye”’s Tan France and it-girl Alexa Chung hosting, the series was simply bursting with personality.
#5: “What Not to Wear” (2003-13)
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This makeover series featured the dynamic duo of Stacy London and Clinton Kelly for most of its decade-long run. Regular people struggling with their fashion sense, and often in need of a confidence boost, found themselves confronted with an ultimatum. If they sacrificed their entire closet, they would have the chance to revamp it according to the hosts’ style guidelines. There’s no question that although they meant well, Stacy and Clinton’s outfit critiques could be harsh. But despite the pair’s sometimes cringe-worthy judgements, the compulsively watchable show offered practical shopping advice for viewers of any age, shape, and size.
#4: “Say Yes to the Dress” (2007-)
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Brides-to-be are notoriously picky customers, which makes this TLC series all the more entertaining. It follows the goings-on at Kleinfeld Bridal from the perspectives of management, customers, and sales associates known as bridal consultants. As the clients prepare for their special day, they must weigh factors like cost, theme, and time constraints while fielding opinions from strong-willed loved ones. There’s a lot on the line and emotions sometimes run high, but the show is just as often heartwarming as it is dramatic. The success of “Say Yes” has even led to spin-offs focusing on plus size designs, bridesmaids’ gowns, and particular personalities from the original show.
#3: “RuPaul’s Drag Race” (2009-)
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RuPaul runs the show on this beloved drag competition series. Queens from across the country gather to compete in a multi-faceted and notoriously challenging battle for the title of “America’s next drag superstar.” Compared to some similar programs, the show demands a wide-ranging skill set from its contestants including acting, singing, dancing, and makeup. But one of its biggest draws is the weekly runway presentation, in which queens debut their best fashions centered around particular themes. This concept is taken even further in “Ball” challenges, which stipulate three catwalk categories - including one that must be homemade from typically unconventional materials. From its over-the-top style moments to its trademark sense of humor, this show is an absolute riot.
#2: “America’s Next Top Model” (2003-18)
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For better or worse, Tyra Banks’s uber-popular competition series is responsible for innumerable iconic TV moments. Although it’s remembered for many ill-advised concepts over its long run, there’s no question that the show inspired future series and influenced the reality TV landscape at large. The basic format of aspiring models participating in photoshoots and other challenges to impress a panel of industry experts hasn’t changed much. However, “Top Model” has also implemented twists like guys-and-girls seasons and social media voting. If that weren’t enough, the series also introduced viewers to the legends and creative forces that are Mr. Jay Manuel and Miss J Alexander. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “The Fashion Fund” (2014-16) This Series Chronicles the Design Contest Co-Sponsored by the Council of Fashion Designers of America and “Vogue” Magazine “The Face” (2013-14) Executive Produced Bby Naomi Campbell, This Modeling Competition Series Pits Supermodel Coaches Against One Another “The Rachel Zoe Project” (2008-13) This Documentary Series Follows the Personal & Professional Lives of the Celebrity Stylist & Entrepreneur “How Do I Look?” (2004-12) This Style Network Series Features “Fashion Victims” Being Made Over By Family & Friends
#1: “Project Runway” (2004-)
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For the fashion-obsessed, there is just no show more bingeable than this long-running series. Creatives are brought together to execute original designs based on prompts that vary week to week. While the original lineup of host Heidi Klum and mentor Tim Gunn made for an iconic duo, new additions Karlie Kloss and Season 4 winner Christian Siriano have kept the show’s popularity going. With the finalists showing collections at New York Fashion Week, the stakes are high and real-life success is within reach. With an Emmy nomination and a Peabody award under its belt, “Project Runway” is not only informative, but downright inspiring.
