Marc Jacobs and Sofia Coppola Have a Love/Hate Relationship with a ‘Kind of Trashy’ ‘90s Fashion Trend (Exclusive)

**Marc Jacobs and Sofia Coppola Celebrate Long-Standing Friendship with New Documentary**

Fashion designer Marc Jacobs and filmmaker Sofia Coppola have unveiled a new documentary called ‘Marc by Sofia’, which is set to hit UK cinemas on March 20. The duo, who have shared a close friendship since the early 1990s, have collaborated on various projects over the years, solidifying both their personal and professional ties within the fashion industry.

The premiere of the documentary took place on March 11 in New York City, where both Jacobs and Coppola discussed their long history and the evolution of their friendship. Their paths crossed in the early ’90s, coinciding with the resurgence of bootcut jeans, a hallmark of that era’s fashion. In 1994, Jacobs launched his first independent label, while Coppola introduced her own fashion venture, Milk Head. Throughout the decade, they were often found among the creative elite, including designer Anna Sui, navigating and influencing the distinctive style of the time.

At the premiere event, Coppola expressed her disdain for bootcut jeans while reflecting on their cultural significance, questioning whether they were truly a ’90s trend or more aligned with the early 2000s. Jacobs concurred, reminiscing about the phase where these jeans transformed from cool to somewhat less appealing as fashion habits shifted. He recalled a phase where the style, which had begun as a homage to ’70s chic, eventually evolved into a look he described as “not the cool… definitely not the Corinde version.”

The pair share similar yet diverging views about fashion trends. Jacobs reminisced fondly about his preference for Helmut Lang’s version of bootcut jeans and dismissively referred to less stylish interpretations, such as those popularised by pop star Britney Spears. In contrast, Coppola reflected on her enduring admiration for other ’90s trends, particularly baby tees and track pants reminiscent of the No Doubt look, particularly appealing as they resonate with current youth style. “I like it,” she said affectionately, to which Jacobs enthusiastically replied, “Love!”

Their friendship has been the foundation for numerous professional collaborations. Starting in the early 2000s, Coppola modelled for Jacobs during his fall/winter 2000 show, and soon after became the face of his debut women’s fragrance in 2001. Their partnership continued through the years, including Coppola directing a commercial for Jacobs’ ‘Daisy Dream’ fragrance in 2014, reinforcing the synergy that exists between their artistic visions.

The culmination of their collaborative journey is encapsulated in ‘Marc by Sofia’, which debuted at the Venice International Film Festival in September 2025. The documentary offers audiences a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Jacobs’ creative process as he designs his spring 2024 ready-to-wear collection, alongside explorative narratives about the influences that have shaped his career in fashion.

Jacobs expressed a sense of pride in being featured in a film directed by Coppola, noting the enjoyment they both shared throughout the filmmaking process. “I feel very proud to be a subject of a Sofia Coppola film,” Jacobs commented, underscoring the joy derived from their time spent together during production. Coppola echoed this sentiment, highlighting the exhilarating experience of exploring Jacobs’ creative space in detail.

As anticipation builds for the film’s release, the friendship and collaboration between Jacobs and Coppola remain a testament to their shared history and mutual respect. ‘Marc by Sofia’ promises to offer not only a look into Jacobs’ world but also a celebration of a lasting friendship intertwined with creativity and innovation.

Fans and newcomers alike can catch ‘Marc by Sofia’ in theatres starting March 20, marking an exciting addition to both Jacobs’ and Coppola’s impressive portfolios. As the premiere approaches, the industry and audiences await the thoughtful exploration of a designer whose impact on fashion remains significant, captured through the lens of a director celebrated for her unique storytelling.