Even two decades on, The Devil Wears Prada remains one of the most enduring, industry-defining films in fashion’s cultural canon. Few other movies have captured the inner workings of editorial life with the same clarity—peeling back the glossy curtain to reveal a world driven by ceaseless ambition, exacting standards, and the telling language of style. From the high-stakes drama of the fashion closet to the spectacle of fabulously elaborate shoots, the film distilled the allure (and chaos!) of the industry into something both aspirational and acutely recognisable.
At its very centre is Miranda Priestly, brought to life with icy precision by Meryl Streep—a woman whose authority is communicated as much through her wardrobe as it is through her words. Around her orbit is a cast of equally compelling characters: Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway), the outsider turned insider and freshly-minted fashion darling; Emily Charlton (Emily Blunt), the razor-sharp assistant who embodies Runway’s exacting standards; and Nigel Kipling (Stanley Tucci), the quietly brilliant fashion editor whose wit and eye anchor everything the film represents.
What has truly cemented the film’s legacy, however, is its costume design. This is fashion not as adornment, but as a narrative tool. Andy’s style transformation—from her shaky beginnings in that cerulean sweater to a wardrobe of sharply cut coats and the Chanel boots that finally earned her Emily’s respect—becomes symbolic of her shifting identity. Emily’s wardrobe, meanwhile, is a study in early-2000s polish: sleek silhouettes, disciplined layering, and an unwavering commitment to looking the part. Befitting of her role as editor-in-chief of Runway, Miranda’s style, naturally, leans into power dressing: sharp tailoring, statement accessories, and a pointed use of colour that underscores her authority. Even Nigel’s classic suiting is brought to life through thoughtful and playful details, a reminder that true style often lies in nuance.
With The Devil Wears Prada 2 set to hit Singapore cinemas on 30 April, there’s no better time to revisit these iconic wardrobes. Plus, Vogue Singapore is hosting a private premiere screening ahead of the film’s theatrical release for Club Vogue members, with limited seating. So, before you head to theatres for the highly-anticipated sequel, consider this definitive style guide your sign to channel the energy of each iconic character from the 2006 film. Priestly-approved? We think yes.
1 / 35
Andy Sachs
2 / 35
Loro Piana Gaia asymmetric linen blouse, $1,383
Available at Net-A-Porter.
4 / 35
Irene Neuwirth 18 carat gold opal necklace, $12,645
Available at Net-A-Porter.
5 / 35
Andy Sachs
8 / 35
Bottega Veneta striped wool jacket, $4,330
Available at Bottega Veneta.
9 / 35
Saint Laurent Julia leather over-the-knee boots, $4,654
Available at Net-A-Porter.
10 / 35
Emily Charlton
14 / 35
Emily Charlton
15 / 35
Givenchy cropped layered leather bomber jacket, $9,456
Available at Net-A-Porter.
16 / 35
Max Mara gathered jersey wrap-effect maxi skirt, $440
Available at Net-A-Porter.
18 / 35
Emily Charlton
21 / 35
Miranda Priestly
22 / 35
Manière De Voir Evana mixed-buttons brown jacket, $344
Available at Farfetch.
24 / 35
Miranda Priestly
25 / 35
Ralph Lauren oversized fit Oxford shirt, $319
Available at Ralph Lauren.
26 / 35
Tom Ford croc-effect leather belt, $1,146
Available at Net-A-Porter.
27 / 35
Burberry long Gabardine Fitzrovia trench coat, $4,390
Available at Burberry.
28 / 35
Nigel Kipling
29 / 35
Boss regular-fit shirt in easy-iron stretch-cotton dobby, $199
Available at Boss.
31 / 35
Favourbrook Selworthy 8cm cotton and silk-blend jacquard tie, $146
Available at Mr Porter.
32 / 35
Nigel Kipling
34 / 35
Brunello Cucinelli Prince of Wales checked linen, silk and wool-blend tweed blazer, $6,795
Available at Mr Porter.
