Fashionable Favorites: Movies Like The Devil Wears Prada

The Devil Wears Prada is a stylish and sharp film that plunges viewers into the competitive and glamorous fashion world. Directed by David Frankel, the movie delves into themes of ambition, identity, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of career success. Frankel’s direction, paired with the stellar performances of Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, has made The Devil Wears Prada a beloved classic in the genre. From its memorable lines to iconic fashion scenes, the film offers a rich narrative that resonates with many.

If you love The Devil Wears Prada for its captivating narrative, dynamic characters, and fashionable flair, here are 10 films you must watch next.

The Devil Wears Prada’s screenplay, adapted from the bestselling novel by Lauren Weisberger, brilliantly captures the cutthroat nature of the fashion industry. The story follows Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway), a recent college graduate who lands a job as an assistant to Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), the powerful and demanding editor-in-chief of a high fashion magazine. As Andy navigates the intense demands of her boss and the glamorous yet ruthless world of fashion, she grapples with the impact of her career on her personal life and relationships. Streep’s iconic portrayal of Miranda Priestly brings a commanding presence to the screen, while Hathaway’s performance adds depth to Andy’s journey from an aspiring journalist to a competent fashion assistant. The film’s chic visual aesthetic, featuring stunning wardrobes, designer outfits, and glamorous settings, immerses viewers in the dazzling yet demanding fashion world. From Andy's transformation scene to the high-stakes fashion shows, every detail adds to the movie's allure.

The September Issue (2009)

• Release Information: Directed by R.J. Cutler, starring Anna Wintour and Grace Coddington.
• Visuals: Behind-the-scenes at Vogue, high-fashion photoshoots, and bustling editorial meetings.
• Summary: A documentary that offers an intimate behind-the-scenes look into the world of high fashion, particularly at Vogue magazine, as iconic editor-in-chief Anna Wintour and creative director Grace Coddington collaborate to produce the prestigious September issue. The film provides a rare glimpse into the intricate process of curating and creating a fashion magazine, from selecting the cover model to orchestrating elaborate photoshoots and deciding on editorial content. It captures the tension, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail that go into producing a publication that sets the tone for the entire fashion industry each year.
• How It's Like The Devil Wears Prada: Both films provide an insider’s look at the fashion industry, highlighting the pressures, creativity, and high-stakes decisions involved in maintaining a top-tier fashion publication. While The Devil Wears Prada offers a fictionalized portrayal of the industry through the lens of a young assistant, The September Issue presents a real-world perspective, showcasing the dedication and vision of industry leaders like Anna Wintour and Grace Coddington.
• Streaming Information: Rent on Prime Video.

13 Going on 30 (2004)

• Rating: PG-13
• Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Romance
• Release Date: April 13, 2004
• Director: Gary Winick
• Cast: Jennifer Garner, Mark Ruffalo, Judy Greer, Andy Serkis, Kathy Baker, Phil Reeves

How It's Like The Devil Wears Prada:

Both films delve into the themes of personal transformation and self-discovery. While The Devil Wears Prada explores a young woman's journey in the fashion industry, 13 Going on 30 takes a fantastical approach, following a 13-year-old girl who wakes up in her 30-year-old self's body. Like The Devil Wears Prada, it explores themes of ambition, identity, and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst societal pressures. While one is grounded in the high-stakes fashion world, the other offers a whimsical take on personal growth and finding happiness in unexpected places.

The Intern (2015)

• Rating: PG-13
• Release Date: September 24, 2015
• Director: Nancy Meyers
• Cast: Robert De Niro, Anne Hathaway, Rene Russo, Anders Holm, JoJo Kushner, Andy Rannells
• Main Genre: Comedy

How It's Like The Devil Wears Prada:

Both films feature Anne Hathaway in leading roles that explore the complexities of professional life. While The Devil Wears Prada dives into the fashion industry, The Intern takes a comedic approach to the modern workplace. It follows the story of a retired widower (played by Robert De Niro) who becomes a senior intern at an online fashion retailer, led by the character portrayed by Hathaway. Like The Devil Wears Prada, The Intern explores themes of mentorship, work-life balance, and the challenges of navigating career paths in competitive environments. While one offers a glimpse into the fast-paced world of fashion, the other provides a heartwarming tale of intergenerational collaboration and personal growth in the digital age.

Coco Before Chanel (2009)

• Release Date: April 22, 2009
• Director: Anne Fontaine
• Cast: Audrey Tautou, Benoît Poelvoorde, Alessandro Nivola, Marie Gillain, Emmanuelle Devos, Régis Royer

How It's Like The Devil Wears Prada:

While The Devil Wears Prada delves into the high-stakes world of fashion journalism, Coco Before Chanel offers a biographical glimpse into the life of one of fashion's most iconic figures. Directed by Anne Fontaine, the film explores the early life of Coco Chanel, played by Audrey Tautou, tracing her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a renowned designer. Like The Devil Wears Prada, Coco Before Chanel delves into the themes of ambition, creativity, and the pursuit of success in a highly competitive industry. However, while one film focuses on the challenges faced by a young assistant navigating the demands of her powerful boss, the other offers an intimate portrait of a trailblazing woman who defied conventions to leave a lasting legacy in the fashion world.

Coyote Ugly (2000)

• Release Date: July 30, 2000
• Director: David McNally
• Cast: Piper Perabo, Adam Garcia, John Goodman, Maria Bello, Izabella Miko, Tyra Banks

How It's Like The Devil Wears Prada:

While The Devil Wears Prada explores the high-pressure world of fashion magazines, Coyote Ugly offers a glimpse into the vibrant nightlife scene of New York City. Directed by David McNally, the film follows Violet Sanford, played by Piper Perabo, as she pursues her dreams of becoming a songwriter while working at the rowdy bar Coyote Ugly. Both films feature strong female leads navigating challenging environments, with Coyote Ugly showcasing themes of independence, determination, and female empowerment. While The Devil Wears Prada focuses on the fashion industry's cutthroat nature, Coyote Ugly celebrates the camaraderie and resilience found in unexpected places, making it a compelling watch for fans of dynamic storytelling and memorable characters.

Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)

• Release Date: October 6, 1961
• Director: Blake Edwards
• Cast: Audrey Hepburn, George Peppard, Patricia Neal, Buddy Ebsen, Martin Balsam, José Luis de Villalonga

How It's Like The Devil Wears Prada:

While The Devil Wears Prada immerses viewers in the fast-paced world of high-end fashion magazines, Breakfast at Tiffany's offers a glimpse into the glamorous lifestyle of New York's social elite during the early 1960s. Directed by Blake Edwards and starring Audrey Hepburn, the film follows the enigmatic Holly Golightly as she navigates the complexities of love and identity in Manhattan. Both films feature iconic female protagonists whose charisma and charm captivate those around them. While The Devil Wears Prada explores themes of ambition and professional success, Breakfast at Tiffany's delves into the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment in a bustling metropolis. With its timeless charm and sophisticated storytelling, Breakfast at Tiffany's remains a classic choice for audiences seeking romance, wit, and a touch of old Hollywood glamour.

Julie & Julia (2009)

• Release Date: August 6, 2009
• Director: Nora Ephron
• Cast: Meryl Streep, Amy Adams, Stanley Tucci, Chris Messina, Linda Emond, Helen Carey

How It's Like The Devil Wears Prada:

In Julie & Julia, directed by Nora Ephron, Meryl Streep once again delivers a captivating performance, this time portraying the legendary chef Julia Child. The film intertwines the lives of Julia Child and Julie Powell, a young New Yorker who embarks on a culinary journey to cook all 524 recipes from Child's cookbook in one year. Like The Devil Wears Prada, Julie & Julia showcases Meryl Streep in a powerful role, this time as a culinary icon whose passion and determination inspire those around her. Both films explore themes of ambition, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence, albeit in different professional domains. While The Devil Wears Prada delves into the cutthroat world of fashion journalism, Julie & Julia offers a delectable glimpse into the culinary arts, celebrating the joy of cooking and the transformative power of food.

Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009)

• Release Date: February 5, 2009
• Director: P.J. Hogan
• Cast: Isla Fisher, Hugh Dancy, Krysten Ritter, Joan Cusack, John Goodman, John Lithgow

How It's Like The Devil Wears Prada:

In Confessions of a Shopaholic, director P.J. Hogan explores the comedic side of the fashion world, offering a lighthearted take on the struggles of professional ambition and personal finance. The film follows Rebecca Bloomwood (played by Isla Fisher), a passionate fashion enthusiast whose shopping addiction lands her in financial trouble. Similar to The Devil Wears Prada, Confessions of a Shopaholic delves into the fashion world, albeit from a different angle, showcasing the allure of designer labels and the challenges of balancing career aspirations with financial responsibility. While The Devil Wears Prada focuses on the high-pressure environment of a prestigious fashion magazine, Confessions of a Shopaholic highlights the comedic consequences of consumerism and the journey toward self-discovery. Both films offer entertaining insights into the fashion industry while exploring themes of personal growth, professional ambition, and the pursuit of happiness.

Sex and the City: The Movie (2008)

• Release Date: May 12, 2008
• Director: Michael Patrick King
• Cast: Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis, Cynthia Nixon, Chris Noth, Candice Bergen

How It's Like The Devil Wears Prada:

In Sex and the City: The Movie, director Michael Patrick King delivers a stylish and glamorous portrayal of the lives of four dynamic women navigating relationships, careers, and the vibrant backdrop of New York City. While the focus of the film is primarily on friendship and romance, it also offers intriguing glimpses into the world of fashion and media, resonating with fans of The Devil Wears Prada. Both films capture the essence of female empowerment and independence, albeit through different lenses. Sex and the City: The Movie celebrates the bonds of friendship and the pursuit of love and happiness, similar to how The Devil Wears Prada explores themes of ambition, identity, and personal growth within the context of the fashion industry. Additionally, both films feature strong female leads and an ensemble cast, creating memorable characters and compelling narratives that captivate audiences.

Second Act (2018)

• Release Date: November 22, 2018
• Director: Peter Segal
• Cast: Milo Ventimiglia, Vanessa Hudgens, Jennifer Lopez, Charlyne Yi, Leah Remini, Freddie Stroma

How It's Like The Devil Wears Prada:

In Second Act, director Peter Segal crafts a compelling narrative that explores themes of career ambition, personal reinvention, and the pursuit of success. While the film differs in setting and plot from The Devil Wears Prada, it shares similarities in its portrayal of a female protagonist striving to break through societal barriers and make a mark in a competitive environment. Like Andy Sachs in The Devil Wears Prada, Jennifer Lopez's character in Second Act undergoes a transformative journey, challenging stereotypes and proving her worth in the corporate world. Additionally, both films feature strong ensemble casts and highlight the importance of authenticity, resilience, and personal growth. Second Act offers a fresh take on the classic underdog story, resonating with audiences who appreciate tales of empowerment and self-discovery.