Vogue book club revisits 'the devil wears prada' ahead of sequel
Just when you thought the fashion world couldn’t get any more deliciously cutthroat, Vogue is taking it back to the beginning. Following a successful inaugural selection of Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, the magazine’s Book Club has announced its second read: Lauren Weisberger’s 2003 novel, The Devil Wears Prada. The timing, as they say, couldn't be more perfect.
A second look at runway's reign
The choice arrives just weeks before the highly anticipated theatrical release of The Devil Wears Prada 2, reuniting the iconic cast—Andy, Emily, Nigel, Miranda—and expanding the universe of the infamous Runway magazine. It's a nostalgic move, to be sure, but also a shrewd one. Who better to dissect the nuances of office politics and impossible standards than the editors of Vogue?
The Book Club experience, as before, will unfold over several weeks, beginning this Thursday and culminating on April 23. Expect weekly articles exploring the novel’s themes—ambition, friendship, and the price of success—alongside lively Group Chats on the Vogue app. And, as the publication promises, “a few surprises along the way.” But the real question isn't about the surprises; it's whether we've truly learned anything from Andy Sachs's journey.
The novel's impact on contemporary fashion and workplace culture is undeniable. Weisberger's insider account, though purportedly fictionalized, resonated deeply with readers, sparking conversations about the demanding nature of the industry and the sacrifices often required to thrive within it. Some dismissed it as mere gossip; others saw it as a surprisingly insightful commentary on the anxieties of young women navigating high-powered careers.
The upcoming film adaptation—and the renewed interest in the source material—provides a perfect opportunity to re-examine these issues. Will the sequel offer a fresh perspective, or simply reheat familiar tropes? Perhaps revisiting the original novel will offer some clarity. Now, pick up a copy—and prepare for a deep dive into the world of Runway.