The 2006 film The Devil Wears Prada, renowned for its focus on women's fashion, also inadvertently captures the essence of mid-aughts menswear. Costumed by Patricia Field, the film provides a snapshot of men's fashion during a transitional period before the internet fueled a democratization of taste.
Fashion in 2006: A Tale of Two Wardrobes
American men's fashion in 2006 was a tale of two wardrobes. On one side, there was the well-dressed man, influenced by the metrosexual trend, who embraced tailored and accessorized outfits. On the other, the everyman donned graphic tees, flannels, and ill-fitting denim, embodying the casual look seen in Judd Apatow's films. The Devil Wears Prada captures this transitional moment before menswear underwent a significant transformation.
Nigel Kipling: The Epitome of Style
Stanley Tucci's character, Nigel Kipling, serves as the film's sartorial standout. As a loyal Runway editor, Nigel epitomizes the well-dressed man with his three-piece suits and European sensibility. His tailored fit sits between the slim cuts that would soon dominate and the contemporary roomy styles. Nigel's ties are assertive, his layering intentional, and even his black turtleneck moment signals restraint from his usual excess.
The Everyman and Fashion's Skeptic
In contrast, Adrian Grenier's Nate represents mid-aughts casual fashion. His bootcut jeans, hoodies, and flannels reflect a lack of consideration, a stark contrast to the fashion-forward environment of Runway. Nate's skepticism of the fashion world is evident in his quip about women's bags, underscoring his disconnect from the industry’s influence.
Between Nigel and Nate: Christian Thompson
Simon Baker's Christian Thompson navigates a middle ground with relaxed tailoring and a penchant for skinny scarves. His style suggests sophistication but remains accessible, unlike Nigel's religious devotion to fashion. Meanwhile, Rich Sommer's Doug quietly displays a corporate look with hints of fashion awareness, referencing names like John Galliano.
Looking back, The Devil Wears Prada highlights a period when menswear had yet to fully evolve. It predates J.Crew's game-changing Ludlow suit and the widespread adoption of Thom Browne's designs. This era, before men's fashion became mainstream, is perfectly encapsulated in the film's wardrobe choices, preserving a moment in time with its three-piece suits and skinny scarves.
Source: https://www.gq.com/story/devil-wears-prada-movie-2006-mid-aughts-menswear
