The highly anticipated sequel to The Devil Wears Prada wrapped production in October 2025 and is scheduled for release in 2026, bringing back much of the original cast alongside new additions. Among the returning stars, Meryl Streep, reprising her role as Miranda Priestly, revealed that filming the sequel reignited one particularly difficult aspect of the character—the relentless high heels—which she joked gave her PTSD after weeks of wearing them on set.
This insight into Streep’s experience highlights the physical toll behind the glamor of playing the powerful Runway editor-in-chief, an iconic role she first embodied two decades ago. Despite the glamour and acclaim associated with Miranda Priestly, Streep confessed that maintaining the character’s signature style, especially the footwear, presented a significant challenge throughout the shoot.
Behind the Scenes: Revisiting Miranda Priestly’s Iconic Style
Miranda Priestly’s character remains one of cinema’s most formidable female villains, yet Streep’s off-screen persona is widely described as warm and collaborative by her co-stars. The actress embraced returning to this demanding role with enthusiasm but drew attention to the physical discomfort involved, particularly from her footwear choice. Addressing the challenge in an interview with Vogue, Streep said,
“As a person holding her position for 20 years, she kept her look but adapted it, as we do with time. But I almost had PTSD from wearing high heels for 16 weeks. I feel like I should get a Medal of Freedom!” – Meryl Streep, Actress
Given that Miranda’s look reflects her long tenure as Runway’s editor-in-chief, subtle updates to her style were incorporated, but the signature high heels remained non-negotiable. Streep’s humorous remark about awarding herself a Medal of Freedom underscores the difficulty of sustaining such footwear for extended periods while maintaining performance quality.
Balancing Fashion and Comfort on Set
Though the high heels were taxing, Streep clarified that she does not oppose them completely, acknowledging how they complete Miranda’s polished appearance. Set photos showcased striking outfits that maintained the character’s status as a fashion authority. Costume designer Molly Rogers noted that the cast contributed actively to updating their character wardrobes, reflecting personal growth and evolution since the original film.
Rogers shared how Anne Hathaway, reprising her role as Andy, aimed to visually communicate Andy’s matured journalistic career through her wardrobe. For Miranda, power dressing remained critical, with designs intended to command respect, such as a striking crimson gown reminiscent of the MET Gala. High heels symbolized authority in this context, which is why they persisted as a key element despite their difficulty.
Recognizing the discomfort caused by constant heels, Streep requested to increase the use of pants over skirts or dresses whenever possible to allow some relief. These wardrobe adjustments, along with the actors’ input, made significant contributions to the sequel’s updated fashion aesthetic, which was previewed briefly in the trailer.
A Fashion-Forward Experience Beyond the Set
The actors’ commitment to authenticity extended beyond wardrobe decisions, as the cast attended Milan Fashion Week and had the opportunity to observe a runway show featuring Anna Wintour. This event was particularly noteworthy because Miranda Priestly’s character is loosely inspired by Wintour, the famed Vogue editor-in-chief, making the real-life encounter a meta moment reflecting the film’s connection to the fashion industry.
Attending the fashion week runway likely provided inspiration and a deeper connection to the real-world influences behind their characters, helping Streep endure filming scenes in demanding footwear. Such experiences enhanced the cast’s understanding of the high-stakes fashion environment their characters navigate on screen.
Anticipating the Sequel’s Premiere and Streep’s Enduring Commitment
With filming complete, there is hope that Streep can finally find some comfort away from the heels during the film’s promotional campaign. Her dedication—jokingly described as medal-worthy—reflects the sacrifices actors often make to bring authentic portrayals to life. The public eagerly awaits the sequel’s launch on May 1, 2026, anticipating the return of beloved characters and fresh storytelling.
Meryl Streep’s candid reflection on her experience wearing high heels for The Devil Wears Prada sequel adds a humanizing layer to the glamorous world the film portrays, spotlighting the blend of artistry and endurance that defines her career. As fans prepare to see Miranda Priestly back on the big screen, the story behind the scenes enhances anticipation for the film’s release and the performances within.
