.png)
Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy Brings Diane von Furstenberg’s Story to Life in New Documentary
- Qui Joacin
- Mar 12
- 3 min read
If there’s one documentary you need to watch this year because I will be watching. It’s Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge.
According to , Directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and co-directed by Trish Dalton, this film isn’t just about a fashion icon—it’s about a woman who lived life entirely on her own terms.
Von Furstenberg is more than the wrap dress, more than the DVF brand—she’s a force. And through rare archival footage, personal interviews, and a global journey through her life, this documentary brings her story to the screen like never before.
Why Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy Took On This Story
Obaid-Chinoy, known for powerful films on gender inequality, wasn’t initially planning to make a celebrity documentary. But when von Furstenberg personally asked her to create a film about the women she uplifts through the DVF Awards and Vital Voices, something clicked.
After a few conversations, the direction of the film shifted.
“People will want to hear your story,” Obaid-Chinoy told von Furstenberg.
At first, von Furstenberg wasn’t convinced. But a year later, she was ready to tell her truth—and only if Obaid-Chinoy directed it.
A Film That’s More Than Just Fashion
This isn’t just a glossy fashion doc—it’s a deeply personal story of resilience, reinvention, and breaking barriers.
For two years, the filmmakers followed von Furstenberg across Paris, Brussels, Venice, Bali, and New York, digging through decades of diaries, family albums, personal letters, and archival footage.
"Diane’s life is an open book," says Obaid-Chinoy. "She doesn’t hide anything—her successes, failures, relationships, business struggles, or personal heartbreaks."
The documentary features insights from some of von Furstenberg’s closest friends, including:
Oprah Winfrey
Gloria Steinem
Marc Jacobs
Karlie Kloss
Christian Louboutin
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Together, they help paint a picture of a woman who has seen it all and kept moving forward.
Key Moments in the Film
From Holocaust Survivor’s Daughter to Fashion Powerhouse – Von Furstenberg’s mother survived Auschwitz, and that resilience shaped her daughter’s fearless ambition.
The Birth of the Wrap Dress & Fashion Empire – The creation of the wrap dress in the ‘70s made her a household name, but behind the success was hard work, determination, and bold risks.
The Business Downfall & Reinvention – At one point, her brand collapsed. Instead of giving up, she rebuilt it from scratch, proving that setbacks don’t define success—comebacks do.
Her Unapologetic Love Life & Personal Freedom – She opens up about her first relationship with a woman, her marriage to openly gay businessman Barry Diller, and why she refuses to live by society’s expectations.
Championing Women’s Rights – Through the DVF Awards and Vital Voices, she’s dedicated her life to amplifying and uplifting women worldwide.
Why This Documentary Feels So Relevant Right Now
In an era where women’s rights are still under attack, von Furstenberg’s story is a reminder of what’s possible when women own their power.
"She says, ‘Own it. Be in charge.’ And that’s what this film is about," says Dalton.
This documentary isn’t just about Diane von Furstenberg—it’s about every woman who has had to fight for a seat at the table.
Where & When to Watch
Premiered: June 5, 2025 (Tribeca Film Festival)
Upcoming Screenings: Washington D.C., Nantucket, London, Paris
Streaming: Hulu (U.S.) & Disney+ (International) on June 25
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Watch ‘Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge’
This isn’t just a fashion documentary—it’s a life documentary.
It’s about reinvention, resilience, and refusing to play by the rules. Whether you’re a fashion lover, entrepreneur, or just someone looking for inspiration, this film will leave you feeling empowered and ready to take charge.
So, will you be watching Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge? Let me know in the comments!
Comments