In an enchanting blend of nostalgia and modern flair, the press junket for *The Devil Wears Prada 2* brought together fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders, all eager to celebrate the return of a beloved cinematic classic. With the opportunity to interview stars such as Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, stylist Liz Teich took on the challenge of recreating the iconic styles of the film’s characters, drawing inspiration from the creators of their unforgettable wardrobes.
A Stylist’s Journey Through Fashion History
Teich, a seasoned stylist with two decades of experience, understood the significance of the event all too well. Just as Anne Hathaway’s character, Andy Sachs, underwent a transformative makeover in the original film, Teich aimed to curate a real-life version of the Runway closet for journalists attending the press junket. It was a quest not merely for aesthetics, but for a sartorial homage to a film that redefined fashion on the silver screen.
Having started her career as an intern in New York City, Teich found herself reflecting on her own past as she prepared for the event. She recalled moments of quick thinking, like crafting an eyeglass chain from a rubber band or fixing a model’s heel with Shoe Goo just moments before a shoot. These experiences fuelled her determination to deliver outfits that felt authentic to the film’s vision.
Sourcing Vintage Treasures
For this ambitious project, Teich turned to What Goes Around Comes Around (WGACA), a renowned secondhand designer resale platform that has been a go-to source for vintage fashion aficionados since its inception in 1993. With a reputation for high-quality pre-owned items and a treasure trove of designer pieces, WGACA became the backbone of Teich’s styling mission. She meticulously selected 150 unique items for the event, ensuring they echoed the essence of the characters portrayed in the film.
As she sifted through the collection, Teich was particularly drawn to pieces that echoed the distinctive styles of the film’s characters, crafted by the original costume designer Patricia Field and her successor Molly Rogers. The result was a stunning array of vintage fashion that was both contemporary and timeless.
Bringing the Characters to Life
Teich’s styling choices were a celebration of the characters’ evolving narratives. For Andy, she selected a chic tweed Chanel jacket, reminiscent of her academic roots, paired with a stylish navy jumpsuit that epitomised her transition from a hesitant intern to a fashion-savvy professional.
Emily, portrayed by Emily Blunt, was brought to life with a striking McQueen pencil skirt dress layered under a rugged Cavalli leather jacket, encapsulating her edgy persona. The ensemble was completed with a Dior bag that reflected her darkly sophisticated aesthetic.
Finally, Miranda Priestly’s commanding presence was represented through an impeccably tailored black McQueen suit adorned with a bold red Gucci coat. Teich even included a Chanel sequined blazer, famously worn by supermodel Linda Evangelista on the cover of *Vogue* in 1991, which perfectly encapsulated Miranda’s authoritative yet understated style.
Tips for Navigating the Vintage Market
Teich’s experience in vintage shopping has taught her that the journey is just as important as the destination. She advises aspiring vintage shoppers to maintain an open mind and not get overly fixated on logos. Often, the most compelling pieces are those from lesser-known designers, allowing for a distinctive look that stands apart from mainstream fashion.
Her personal highlight from the collection was a striking Thierry Mugler black leather fringe dress, emblematic of the designer’s bold and futuristic aesthetic. By pairing this stunning piece with an ivory Chanel jacket, Teich showcased the versatility of luxury fashion, demonstrating how vintage finds can easily transition from the office to a night out.
As the press junket unfolded, journalists embraced the opportunity to don these exquisite outfits, with one reporter even catching Meryl Streep’s eye with a pink tweed Chanel jacket during an interview. Such moments underscore the enduring influence of *The Devil Wears Prada* and the cultural significance of fashion, reinforcing the idea that style can indeed leave a lasting impression.
Why it Matters
The revival of *The Devil Wears Prada* through its sequel not only reignites our love for its characters but also serves as a poignant reminder of fashion’s power to transform and inspire. In an era where sustainability is paramount, the emphasis on vintage and secondhand fashion, as exemplified by Teich’s styling, encourages us to rethink our consumption habits. By celebrating the artistry of fashion and the stories behind each piece, we honour the legacy of a film that continues to influence both the industry and our personal style choices.