It is difficult to thrive in any industry without
hard work––regardless of who you know. The fashion industry is no exception; however, the media’s portrayal of the industry often suggests otherwise. Movies like The Devil Wears Prada and television shows such as “The Carrie Diaries” and “The Bold Type” propose that success in the industry comes solely through connections and luck. Hence, it is hard for audiences to decipher what is realistic and what is exaggerated. In The Devil Wears Prada, fashion tycoon and magazine editor Miranda Priestly is portrayed as a tyrannical and cruel boss. She does whatever she has to do to keep her place in the industry, in spite of her personal life and the lives of those around her. The relationship between Miranda and her newest employee, Andy Sachs, is at the focal point of the film. To many, this relationship represents the harsh life and treatment of industry workers. The horrors of the fashion industry are exposed and reinforced throughout this film,
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giving a bad reputation to magazines and their executives––think Vogue and the iconic Anna Wintour. However, despite the intimidating and heartless characterization of Miranda, the boss of Runway magazine, is admirable. She is depicted as hardworking, career-driven and demanding of respect. While some may criticize Miranda for her aggressive approach, it is important to acknowledge her as a female boss whose work ethic and determination ultimately led her to success. This focus on strong, female characters is a recurring theme and should inspire other women looking to hold high-up positions in fashion and elsewhere. In an interview with Refinery 29, Co-Founder of Tinker Tailor Cleo Davis-Urman recounted how she took charge of the fashion industry. Urman worked under Rachel Zoe, and it changed her life. After only a week she assisted in celebrity fittings. Soon after, she began working on her own.
“I learned so much from Rachel, who is not only a fashion icon with impeccable taste and the most discerning eye, but a savvy businesswoman,” Urman said. “She taught me to never take no for an answer and that all of my fashion dreams could be made a reality.” Carrie Bradshaw in “The Carrie Diaries” shows the opposing, glitzy perspective of a young woman struggling to find her place in New York City. After accidentally stumbling into the editor of her favorite magazine, Carrie was offered a job. While the majority of the plot-lines may be somewhat unrealistic, Carrie’s passion, dedication and initiative are all attractive qualities in the competitive world of fashion journalism. Despite her young age, Bradshaw manages to impress everyone she meets, allowing her to quickly establish herself in the industry. Associate Digital Editor of Harper’s Bazaar Lauren Fisher said, “As an intern you have the opportunity to learn everything from the ground up, that means you’re putting in hard work—it’s
