The Evolution of 'Runway': A Deeper Look into the Set Design of 'The Devil Wears Prada 2'
Behind the Scenes: Crafting the World of High Fashion and Personal Transformation in the Sequel
Reinventing the Iconic 'Runway' Headquarters: A Modern Expansion
For the much-anticipated sequel, production designer Jess Gonchor faced the challenge of making everything "bigger and better" than the original 2006 blockbuster. This involved a significant aesthetic upgrade to the fictional 'Runway' magazine offices, reflecting the publication's evolution to include digital and video operations. The new sets, meticulously constructed at Kaufman Astoria Studios, were an impressive eight times larger, offering a more expansive and visually rich environment. Gonchor, who also worked on the first film, emphasized creating a more open visual story, moving beyond just Miranda's immediate space to encompass the broader world of the magazine.
Miranda's Evolving World: Navigating New Challenges and Spaces
The sequel delves into the shifting dynamics of the magazine industry, impacting Miranda Priestly's once-unquestionable authority. Her new office, while retaining a sense of familiarity with vintage 'Runway' posters, is now more spacious and opulent, featuring a sophisticated wood-accented desk and plush furnishings. This reflects her enduring power while subtly hinting at the new pressures she faces. The assistant's area, conversely, boasts a warmer and more inviting atmosphere, a stark contrast to the original's rigid formality. This subtle shift in design mirrors Miranda's slightly more approachable, albeit still formidable, character, even showing her hanging up her own coat.
Residential Updates: From Manhattan Elegance to Hamptons Luxury
Miranda's personal life is also depicted through her unchanged, yet timelessly elegant, marble and limestone townhouse on the Upper East Side, complete with its signature cerulean touches and spiral staircase. A glimpse into her luxurious Hamptons estate further underscores her affluent lifestyle. Andy, meanwhile, experiences a significant upgrade in her living situation, moving to a new apartment featuring a spacious bedroom, an open-plan kitchen, and expansive windows. This residential evolution parallels her professional growth and burgeoning romance with her apartment's contractor.
A Global Stage: Milan Takes Center Stage for Fashion and Intrigue
Departing from Paris, the sequel embraces Italy's vibrant charm, particularly Milan. Key scenes, including a lavish Dolce & Gabbana fashion show, were filmed in the fashion capital. The film also showcases the breathtaking beauty of Villa Balbiano on Lake Como. A standout achievement in set design was the meticulous recreation of Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper Museum on a local soundstage, painstakingly painted by a team of Italian scenic artists. The grand 'Runway' fashion show itself was hosted at The Accademia di Brera, where a local crew expertly constructed the elaborate catwalk, demonstrating the film's commitment to authentic and spectacular backdrops.
The Joy of Creation: A Collaborative Filmmaking Experience
Despite Miranda's perpetually unsatisfied nature within the film's narrative, Jess Gonchor fondly recalls the joyful and collaborative atmosphere during the production. He highlights the strong camaraderie among the cast and crew, who frequently socialized off-camera, fostering an environment filled with laughter. This positive experience, he notes, is a rare and cherished aspect of filmmaking, contributing to the overall success and charm of the sequel.