‘The Devil Wears Zara’

Is the sequel of the Devil Wears Prada a poor execution of modern fashion, or is it a strategic critique of the diffusion of fashion in digital media?  

Online fans have joked that the new Devil Wears Prada 2 looks more like Zara than Prada, and not as a compliment. The original was brought to our screens in 2006 at the height of Y2K fashion.  This era of fashion was shiny (with rhinestones) and infused with energetic elements of hyper-femininity and low-rise bottoms.  

In the original, the world behind the magazines was presented to us in full length channel boots, carefully tailored coats, blazers, and floor length dresses. Although fashion in the tabloids was all glitz and glam (with Paris Hilton and Nichole Richie leading the way) Miranda Priestly and eventually Andy Sachs opted for elegance and exclusivity 

Occasionally, Andy stepped out in more colorful and playful pieces, most notably her vintage Marc Jacobs green coat with leopard print lining.  

The new paparazzi pictures of The Devil Wears Prada are unfortunately causing many fans to scratch their heads. Andy is spotted in maximalist patterns and a patched-up denim jumpsuit, paired with Channel Birkenstocks. The Miranda Priestly even strides across the streets of New York in bright red, bowed-adorned heels.  

It appears Andy and Miranda have gone from trend starter to trend follower.  

Fans expected outfits that were the epitome of high fashion and instead have received unrefined outfits that are the antithesis of timelessness.  

This may be the whole point. The sequel plot follows Miranda as she faces the decline of print media while having to go up against high-powered executives at popular luxury groups. In fashion today, Tik Tok and other digital platforms have given everyone a platform to express their fashion opinions. Big magazines are no longer dictating the narrative. As a result, we are seeing trends move in and out of popularity quickly, notably boho chic and leopard print.  

Maybe, in this case, the wardrobe choice is intentional, showcasing the industry's loss of a clear direction considering trend-driven fashion prompted by social media.  

Written By Ava Harvey