This article explores the lasting cultural influence of "The Devil Wears Prada" and the behind-the-scenes story of Vogue's May cover, which brings together Meryl Streep and Anna Wintour. It highlights the widespread recognition of the film and its central characters, even among those outside the fashion world. The piece also details the collaborative efforts to secure both iconic figures for the cover, celebrating the upcoming sequel and the ongoing relevance of the original story.
The writer recounts attending the premiere of the original "Devil Wears Prada" with their mother, noting their prom dress choice and the subsequent encounter with Anna Wintour and her daughter, Bee. Years later, when the idea of a sequel arose, the Vogue team decided to capitalize on its release, which coincided with the Met Gala. The initial thought was to feature Meryl Streep, but the bold idea of including both "Mirandas" - Anna Wintour and Meryl Streep - for the May cover of 2026 quickly gained traction. This ambitious plan was set in motion to commemorate the film's impact and its connection to the fashion magazine.
The author shares a personal anecdote from a Parisian towncar ride with Anna Wintour in early October. During a discussion about upcoming cover stories, the writer cautiously proposed the idea of Anna appearing on the cover with Meryl Streep. Anna, though amused, initially declined, stating it wasn't her usual style. However, Meryl Streep later convinced her to participate, much to the writer's gratitude. This collaboration was seen as a perfect way to immortalize a significant cultural moment, bridging the world of cinema and high fashion.
Since beginning their tenure at Vogue after the film's 2006 debut, the author frequently encountered questions comparing their workplace experiences to those depicted in "The Devil Wears Prada." Friends' parents, suburban business professionals, and even doormen would inquire about the similarities to the fictional "Miranda Priestly" and the realities of working at Vogue. This phenomenon underscored how universally recognizable Anna Wintour and, by extension, Vogue had become, especially among individuals outside the fashion sphere. Interestingly, Meryl Streep's portrayal of Miranda is reportedly the role men most frequently ask her about.
The interview between Meryl Streep and Anna Wintour, conducted by Greta Gerwig, provided many unexpected revelations. They discussed the motivation behind the sequel, Anna's reaction to its development (she called Meryl), and playful banter about each other's demanding roles. Meryl confessed she wouldn't want Anna's job, citing the daunting footwear, while Anna couldn't fathom taking on Meryl's profession. The conversation also touched upon the longevity of designers, professional attire, and the expressive power of clothing, recalling Miranda's memorable cerulean sweater monologue.
In addition to the cover story, the May issue of Vogue featured "Costume Art," an exhibition at The Metropolitan Museum, showcasing the intersection of fashion and fine art. Ethan James Green photographed various pieces within The Met's new Condé M. Nast Galleries, while Annie Leibovitz captured portraits of the Gala host committee. Five visual artists offered diverse perspectives on body types within the exhibition, and a pajama party at The Mark Hotel paid homage to the tradition of witnessing the sunrise after a glamorous, late-night ball gown event.
During these preparations, the idea emerged to select "The Devil Wears Prada" as Vogue's second Book Club pick. The author admitted to never having read Lauren Weisberger's 2003 novel, describing it as a thrilling narrative filled with details like five-inch stilettos, endless corporate car accounts, and the seemingly exorbitant cost of New York coffee. The book club plans to host an early screening of the film for its members and friends of Vogue, with a special mission to invite as many former assistants to Anna Wintour as possible.