Vogue Essay Reconsiders Fashion Film Villains as Misunderstood Professionals

A Vogue opinion piece argues that female antagonists in fashion films are unfairly vilified for being ambitious, stylish, and dedicated to their work. The author re-watched autumn favorites including 13 Going on 30, The Devil Wears Prada, Confessions of a Shopaholic, Ugly Betty, and Cruella, and found herself siding with characters like Miranda Priestly and Emily Charlton. The essay notes that Emily, after being hit by a car, is betrayed when Andy takes her Paris assignment, while Wilhelmina Slater of Ugly Betty is the only Mode employee with real taste and earned her position, unlike the nepotism-appointed Daniel Meade. In 13 Going on 30, Lucy Wyman's ambition and edgy 'fashion suicide' concept are defended against Jenna Rink's tired yearbook idea, and Jenna's own past of stealing an assistant's concept is highlighted. Similarly, Alicia of Confessions of a Shopaholic and the Baroness in Cruella are justified in protecting their careers from newcomers. The author suggests this pattern reflects misogyny and a stigma against anti-people-pleasers, and concludes by joking about being cast in The Devil Wears Prada 3.