08 Feb Book Review: The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger

I recently revisited The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger, a novel that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the high-stakes world of fashion journalism. As someone who enjoys character-driven stories set in unique environments, I was curious to see how this tale of ambition and personal growth would resonate.

What’s it about?

The story follows Andrea “Andy” Sachs, a recent Brown University graduate with aspirations of becoming a writer for The New Yorker. Eager to kickstart her career, she lands a job as a junior assistant to Miranda Priestly, the formidable editor-in-chief of Runway, a premier fashion magazine. Despite her lack of interest in fashion, Andy is assured that enduring a year under Miranda’s demanding regime will open doors to her dream writing opportunities.

As Andy navigates her new role, she is thrust into a world of high fashion, where appearances are paramount, and the pressure to perform is relentless. Miranda’s expectations are notoriously exacting, leading Andy to work grueling hours and tackle tasks that often seem impossible. The job’s demands strain her relationships with her boyfriend, Alex, and her best friend, Lily, as she becomes increasingly consumed by the Runway lifestyle.

Throughout her tenure, Andy grapples with the moral complexities of her position, questioning the sacrifices she’s making for the sake of her career. Encounters with figures like Christian Collinsworth, a charismatic writer, further complicate her journey as she balances personal integrity against professional ambition.

The narrative delves into themes of identity, the cost of success, and the often unseen challenges of glamorous industries. Andy’s evolution from a naïve newcomer to someone who must make pivotal decisions about her future forms the crux of the story.

What This Chick Thinks

Diving into The Devil Wears Prada, I was struck by Weisberger’s sharp and witty prose. The portrayal of the fashion industry’s inner workings is both fascinating and, at times, overwhelming, mirroring Andy’s own experiences. The characters are vividly drawn, with Miranda Priestly standing out as an iconic figure whose presence looms large over the narrative.

Andy’s journey is relatable, especially for those who’ve faced the trials of demanding workplaces. Her internal struggles and the impact of her job on her personal life are depicted with authenticity, making her decisions and growth feel genuine.

However, some aspects of the plot felt predictable, and certain character arcs could have been explored more deeply. The resolution, while satisfying, left me pondering the long-term implications of Andy’s choices.

Despite these minor critiques, the novel offers a compelling exploration of ambition and the personal costs that often accompany professional success.

Final Thoughts

The Devil Wears Prada is an engaging read that provides insight into the high-pressure world of fashion journalism. Lauren Weisberger crafts a narrative that balances humor with introspection, making it a worthwhile read for those interested in the complexities of career and personal growth. I’d rate it a 7.5 out of 10 for its entertaining storytelling and relatable themes.

Try it if you like:

• “I Don’t Know How She Does It” by Allison Pearson
  A candid look at the challenges of balancing a demanding career with personal life, centered on a woman’s struggle to “have it all.”
• “The Nanny Diaries” by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus
  An insider’s perspective on the world of Manhattan’s elite, told through the eyes of a nanny navigating the complexities of her employers’ lives.
• “Everyone Worth Knowing” by Lauren Weisberger
  Another of Weisberger’s novels, exploring the glamorous yet challenging world of public relations in New York City.