In Vogue: The 90s Christian Review
Fashion documentaries can be a fascinating study, especially when they manage to capture the essence of a time and the culture it created. “In Vogue: The 90s” does exactly that, immersing viewers in an era that turned the fashion world on its head. But how does a Christian viewer engage with something that may, at first glance, appear so far removed from the spiritual values we hold dear? Can we appreciate it for what it is, while keeping our minds fixed on what truly matters? Let’s dive deeper and see where the real conversation lies.
Fashion as Reflection of a Decade
“In Vogue: The 90s” is all about that particular moment in time when fashion seemed to break every rule and make new ones, all while being dazzling, extravagant, and, well, sometimes outright ridiculous. High fashion has always had a way of capturing attention, whether for good or ill. For Christians watching this, the documentary offers an opportunity to reflect on the creativity God has endowed in humanity. Fashion is art, after all. And like any art form, it communicates, it expresses, it reveals the heart of a culture.
The documentary does a brilliant job of showcasing how fashion in the 90s wasn’t just about clothes; it was about rebellion, about pushing boundaries, about reimagining what beauty and self-expression looked like. Names like Nicole Kidman, Tom Ford, and Anna Wintour add a certain star power to the narrative, giving their insights into a time that was about much more than fabric and stitching. And while the nostalgia factor is high, particularly for those who lived through the 90s, the documentary pulls in younger generations who are looking back at an era they never experienced firsthand.
As Christians, we can certainly admire this. The human mind, inspired by creativity, mirrors the Creator Himself. Genesis speaks of us being made in the image of God, and part of that reflection is our ability to create, design, and innovate. In “In Vogue: The 90s,” you see fashion designers doing just that—reflecting their own creativity, sometimes in ways that challenge the status quo. But, while there is a lot to admire, there is also a need for discernment in what fashion promotes and glorifies.
The Glitz, the Glamour, and the Pitfalls of Vanity
Let’s be honest: fashion can often walk a fine line between artistic expression and vanity. “In Vogue: The 90s” unapologetically celebrates both. It’s a bright and breezy journey through the glitz and glamour of a decade that many consider one of fashion’s most exciting periods. Yet, this is also where the Christian viewer must tread carefully.
Vanity, excess, materialism—these are the pitfalls we must avoid. The Bible is clear in its caution against the love of outward appearance and worldly possessions. Proverbs 31 reminds us that “charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting,” a truth that’s hard to keep in mind when watching footage of supermodels strutting down the runway in clothes that cost more than some people make in a year. The focus on the external can often overshadow deeper issues of the heart, and this is a challenge not only for the fashion world but for each of us in our daily lives.
The 90s fashion scene, as depicted in this documentary, was about celebrating beauty in its many forms—but it’s a beauty that often comes with an unhealthy obsession with perfection. Watching this, a Christian might feel a pull in two directions: one toward admiration for the sheer talent and another toward a cautious distance from the superficiality that too often accompanies the fashion industry. It’s crucial to maintain a balanced view, acknowledging the art while guarding our hearts from idolizing it.
A Star-Studded Cast and the Power of Influence
The documentary boasts an impressive lineup of stars and fashion icons who lived through the decade and helped shape it. From Nicole Kidman’s reflections to Tom Ford’s commentary, it’s clear that these individuals wield immense influence—not only in the world of fashion but in shaping the cultural attitudes of the time. As Christians, we know how powerful influence can be. We are called to be influencers of a different kind, though—ambassadors of Christ, as 2 Corinthians 5:20 puts it.
This documentary reminds us that fashion, like any other platform, can be used to promote messages that align with or contradict our faith. The stars interviewed here wielded their influence in ways that were both inspiring and, at times, morally ambiguous. It’s a reflection of how we, too, can use the platforms and talents God has given us for His glory or for the pursuit of self.
What’s the Takeaway?
So, what’s the takeaway from “In Vogue: The 90s” for a Christian viewer? It’s not a simple answer. The documentary is entertaining, no doubt about that. It’s a vivid portrait of an era that some will remember with great fondness and others will find new and fascinating. But beyond the bright lights and the catwalks, there’s a deeper conversation to be had about where fashion fits into our lives as Christians.
Yes, we can appreciate the artistry. We can marvel at the talent of the designers and models. But we must also remember that fashion, at its core, is temporary. It’s part of a world that is constantly changing, and while it can be beautiful, it’s not the ultimate source of beauty. True beauty comes from within, from a heart that reflects the love and grace of God. As 1 Peter 3:3-4 says, “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment… Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
A Final Word and Rating
“In Vogue: The 90s” is a visually stunning and engaging documentary that captures the spirit of a decade. But it’s also a reminder of how easily we can get caught up in the pursuit of material beauty and success. For those watching through a Christian lens, it’s an opportunity to reflect on our values, to appreciate creativity without letting it define us, and to remember that while fashion changes, God’s Word remains the same.
For its entertainment value and nostalgic charm, I’d give “In Vogue: The 90s” a 6 out of 10. It’s fun, it’s flashy, but in the end, it’s just clothes on a runway. Let’s make sure we keep our eyes on the eternal, even while we enjoy the temporal.
