Cardiomyopathies are a heterogeneous group of diseases of the myocardium associated with architectural abnormalities and mechanical dysfunction. Recent advances in our understanding of the genetics, pathophysiology, and natural history of these conditions has resulted in better diagnosis and management, leading to improvements in mortality. Major developments in imaging techniques, in particular contrast-enhanced MRI, now permit in vivo tissue characterization of the myocardium. Through defining disease severity, etiology, and to some extent in risk stratification, routine cardiovascular magnetic resonance evaluation of this group of patients provides essential information required in everyday clinical practice.