The Devil Wears Prada 2 Took Me Back… But Not for the Reason You Might Think

The Devil Wears Prada 2 is a fantastic romp through the magazine world, but that's not why it piqued my attention

There was something surreal about watching The Devil Wears Prada 2. For most people, it was a nostalgic return to the glossy world of magazines, fashion, Miranda Priestly’s icy demeanor, and Andy's attempts to win her favour.  For me, it felt like stepping back into a life I once lived, but that’s not the real reason it has stayed with me so deeply.

Yes, it reminded me of my 25+ years in the glossy magazine industry, latterly as editor‑in‑chief of HELLO!, the front‑row seats, the glamorous parties, late‑night cover decisions, deadlines, the thrill of shaping popular culture through stories and images. But the real tug on my heart came from something more intimate, much more me.

It reminded me why I write.

The Magic Behind the Scenes

Behind every gown I’ve worn, every stylist I’ve observed, every A‑lister I’ve watched glide down a red carpet… there has always been a story.

Not the story the public sees – the one of polished, perfection – but the one whispered in the fitting room, held together by tit-tape, pinned into a hem, tucked into a garment bag, or shared in a moment of naked vulnerability before the flashbulbs go off.

I’ve covered the Oscars at least sixteen times. I’ve worked with stylists all over the world. I’ve walked hundreds of red carpets, champagne-coloured ones too. I’ve worn gowns that made me feel like I’d stepped into another version of myself. And I’ve seen, first‑hand, what it takes to dress the A‑list for the biggest nights of their lives.

Those behind‑the‑scenes moments – the goings‑on in the closets, the transformations, the tension, tears, tantrums and joy – that’s where the interest always lived for me. That’s what inspired my writing far more than the glamour ever could.

Why I Created The Stylist Series

My novels aren’t just about fashion. They’re actually about identity; they’re the stories of who we become when we step into a dress, a role, and a moment that asks us to perform to the best of our ability.

Amber Green, my protagonist, didn’t fall in love with fashion because of the clothes. She fell in love with what clothes say. The way a look can reveal a truth, hide a fear, keep secrets, express a dream, or help someone step into a version of themselves they didn’t know they were ready for.

That’s the heartbeat of The Stylist, Amber Green Takes Manhattan, and Bad Influence. They’re love letters to the hidden world behind the red carpet, a world I was lucky enough to witness up close. From trailing Georgio Armani in his atelier the night before the Academy Awards, to being dressed for my own A-list moments on the carpet at Elton John’s Oscars party and the countless photoshoots I have attended, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative power of fashion

My novels are also love letters to the people who work tirelessly behind the scenes, stitching confidence into seams and courage into silhouettes.

If you’re looking for a Devil Wear’s Prada‑esque read, all three novels are out now. and they’re filled with the blend of chaos, charm, humour, and heart that made me fall in love with storytelling.

Explore the world of The Stylist  here. And there's more - keep reading!

And Now… I’m Inviting You Into the Creative Process

All of this – the storytelling, the identity‑shaping and the behind‑the‑scenes magic – is exactly why I’m hosting my next Creative Writing Retreat this autumn.

From 9-11 November, I’ll be gathering a small group of ten writers, dreamers, and story‑seekers in the Cotswolds for three days of immersion, inspiration and craft. It’s a chance to step away from the noise, reconnect with your voice, and explore the stories only you can tell.

We’ll dive into character, structure, confidence, and the art of writing from truth or imagination, and all within the most beautiful, restorative setting designed to spark creativity. I'll be joined by two incredible experts in this field – author and writing coach Jill Dawson and literary agent Jenny Savill, two women who have been integral to my journey as a published author. Now I want to share the love!

BOOK NOW!

You can read all the details and book your place here

And visit the full retreat page for more detalis here

If The Devil Wears Prada 2 taught me anything, it’s that stories shape us and sometimes, they reinvent us. I’d love to help you write yours.

Love