It was meant to be a triumphant return to the glossy, cutthroat world of fashion—but The Devil Wears Prada 2 is already being dismissed by critics as a stylish imitation of the original, likened to a high-street knockoff rather than a luxury revival.
A review in Haaretz has sparked conversation across the fashion and film worlds, branding the sequel as 'a Zara version of a classic', a cutting comparison that suggests the film is polished and wearable, yet ultimately lacking the depth and precision of true designer craftsmanship.
Nearly 20 years after audiences first met ' Priestly and Andy Sachs, expectations were sky-high. But while the sequel delivers familiar faces and glossy visuals, critics argue it settles for safe storytelling instead of bold reinvention.
'The Devil Wears Prada 2' is branded a 'Zara version'of the original
According to the review, The Devil Wears Prada 2 'gets the job done', but that's precisely the problem. Like a dependable fast-fashion sweater, it serves its purpose without ever truly standing out.
The critique suggests the sequel lacks the sharp wit and biting commentary that made the original film a cultural touchstone. Instead of pushing boundaries, it leans heavily on nostalgia, revisiting familiar character dynamics without significantly evolving them.
Where the first film dissected ambition, identity, and the cost of success in the fashion industry, the sequel is described as more surface-level, skimming the aesthetic without delving into the deeper tensions that once defined the story.
Even its humor, once razor-sharp, is said to feel softened. The dialogue lands, but rarely surprises, and the emotional stakes don't hit with the same force.
The Devil Wears Prada 2 reflects fashion's shift toward accessibility
The 'Zara' comparison is particularly telling not just as criticism, but as commentary on the current state of fashion itself.
In today's industry, the lines between luxury and high street have blurred. Fast fashion brands replicate runway looks at speed, making style more accessible but often sacrificing originality and craftsmanship.
The review implies that The Devil Wears Prada 2 mirrors this shift. It packages the essence of the original into something easier to consume, visually appealing, familiar, and commercially viable but ultimately less distinctive.
There's a sense that the sequel prioritizes broad appeal over creative risk. It's designed to please audiences who loved the first film, rather than challenge them with something new.
And yet, that may explain its inevitable popularity.
Just as Zara thrives on delivering trend-led fashion to the masses, the film is likely to resonate with viewers seeking comfort, glamour, and a return to beloved characters, even if it doesn't break new ground.
The result is a sequel that feels very much of its time: efficient, stylish, and market-ready.
But for those who expected a bold, high-fashion statement piece, The Devil Wears Prada 2 may come across as something else entirely, a well-made replica that never quite captures the original's magic.
The Devil Wears Prada 2 swaps bold fashion moments for understated style. Andy embraces relaxed luxury, while Miranda's tailoring softens slightly. The wardrobe feels wearable and modern, echoing the film's 'Zara version' critique by prioritizing accessibility over dramatic, high-fashion impact.
