The Devil Wears Prada, by author Lauren Weisberger, is a 2003 novel that was adapted into a monumentally successful film, one that still has us talking about it today. The fictionalized memoir, which spent six months on the New York Times Best-Seller List, revolves around the demanding Runway magazine editor, Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), and her newly employed assistant, Andrea Sachs (Anne Hathaway). The story was in such high demand when first written that, according to Women’s Wear Daily, the novel was sold to Doubleday for $250,000. Much of its allure can undoubtedly be attributed to its alleged real-life inspiration. Since its inception, many have drawn comparisons between Miranda Priestly and formidable Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. A conclusion that is not a far leap considering that Weisberger was once Wintour’s assistant. This article explores how Miranda Priestly mirrors Anna Wintour in both professional demeanor and personal characteristics.
Professional Similarities:
Commanding Presence: Director David Frankel ensured Miranda Priestly was depicted as having an intimidating, powerful presence—known for her high expectations and precise standards. Anna Wintour exhibits a comparable aura, her name has become synonymous with authority and influence in the fashion industry. Both figures command attention and respect wherever they go, creating a sense of reverence and fear among their subordinates. Streep based her character’s demeanor on those of famed directors Clint Eastwood and Mike Nichols. She cited their ability to command respect while never raising their voices - a trait present in Streep’s performance.
Unrivaled Influence: Miranda’s influence in the fashion industry is unparalleled; her opinions can make or break designers’ careers, reflecting Wintour’s real-world impact. Wintour’s decisions and endorsements have been known to elevate emerging designers to global fame and lead to the downfall of established ones, emphasizing her significant role in shaping fashion trends and industry standards.
Demanding and Rigorous: The work environment under Miranda is portrayed as extremely stressful and demanding, with employees striving to meet her exacting standards. This mirrors tales from Vogue’s offices where Wintour’s high expectations and meticulous attention to detail are legendary, creating a challenging atmosphere where only the most resilient and devoted thrive. As far as the physical setting, it is rumored that the film’s production designer snuck into the Condé Nast building and took pictures of Wintour’s office, then tried to replicate it exactly through set design.
Personal Characteristics:
Distinctive Style: Miranda Priestly’s unique, impeccable style is a defining characteristic, mirroring Wintour’s iconic and unwavering sartorial choices. Wintour’s signature bob haircut and sunglasses are as recognizable as Miranda’s lavish wardrobe and sophisticated demeanor, both representing their uncompromising commitment to aesthetic excellence.
Reserved Demeanor: Both Miranda and Anna exhibit a reserved, somewhat aloof personality. Miranda’s interactions are characterized by sharp, concise dialogue and a lack of outward emotion, mirroring Wintour’s reputedly icy and distant demeanor. Their enigmatic personas foster an atmosphere of mystery and respect but also create a barrier between them and their subordinates.
Commitment to Excellence: Miranda’s relentless pursuit of perfection in The Devil Wears Prada is a direct reflection of Wintour’s real-life dedication to maintaining Vogue’s status as the leading fashion magazine. Their uncompromising standards and relentless work ethic illustrate their shared belief in excellence as the only acceptable outcome.
Criticisms and Counterarguments: While the similarities are compelling, the characterization of Miranda Priestly has been criticized for portraying a stereotypically negative image of powerful women as tyrannical and emotionless. Some argue that this representation perpetuates harmful stereotypes about women in leadership roles. Wintour herself, despite her reputed coldness, has been praised for her contributions to the fashion industry and her support for young designers. The portrayal of Miranda could be seen as a one-dimensional caricature, lacking the depth and complexity of the real-life figure she is believed to represent.
Moreover, neither Weisberger nor the creators of the movie adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada have explicitly confirmed that Miranda is directly based on Anna Wintour. In a new biography she wrote about Wintour, author Amy Odell claimed that when Wintour learned about Weisberger’s novel, she told managing editor Laurie Jones, “I cannot remember who that girl is”. According to Vogue contributing editor William Norwich, Wintour didn’t care all that much that she had potentially been written about. He is quoted saying, “I don’t think Anna is as interested in the cultural phenomenon that she is as the rest of us are.”
However, prior to the film’s premiere in June of 2006, Wintour accepted an invitation to a private screening at the Paris Theater in New York City. She showed up wearing, of course, custom Prada. It was noted by Odell that although Wintour had a notorious habit of sneaking out of boring plays halfway through, she stayed in her seat at the end of the row and watched the entire film. Odell wrote, “At one point, [Wintour’s daughter] turned to her and said ‘Mom, they really got you’.”
The Devil Wears Prada offers a tantalizing glimpse into the high-stakes world of fashion journalism, with Miranda Priestly standing as a symbol of authority, influence, and style. The parallels drawn between Miranda and Anna Wintour offer fascinating insights into the challenges and triumphs experienced by powerful women in the competitive fashion industry. While the character of Miranda Priestly may accentuate certain aspects of Wintour’s personality and professional approach, it is crucial to approach these comparisons with a balanced perspective, recognizing the potential for fictional embellishment and stereotype perpetuation. Regardless, both Miranda Priestly and Anna Wintour will continue to be iconic representations of power, determination, and elegance in the fashion world.