The Devil Moves Prada

Chaos reigned on the eve of Milan’s fashion week, when fashion Highness Anna Wintour decided to shorten her visit to the Lombard city. The move generated panic among organizers who scuffled to reschedule shows that had been in the planning for months. Major fashion houses rushed to ensure their shows would be seen by the doyenne of fashion.

Milan’s fashion week usually runs from February 24 until March 2, with major labels presenting towards the last days of the event. However, upon news of Wintour’s schedule, everyone was tried to cramp their shows into the 3 days that she would be in town. Eventually, the houses of Prada and Fendi decided to move their shows as originally scheduled and were followed by other brands. This will give the attendees a more relaxed schedule instead of revolving on that of American’s Vogue mighty behemoth.

Problem solved but the Italians, however, were left bitter. Anna’s touch-and-go visit generated a wave of criticism from the media and the industry. Most notably were the comments made by Mario Boselli, President of the Italian Fashion Chamber. Quoting from The Daily Telegraph: “She’s welcome in Milan but if she only comes for a fleeting visit, perhaps it would be better if she stayed at home.”

Ouch, I guess not everybody in the industry grovels at her feet after all.

Photo: Snejana Onopka as Anna Wintour by Mario Testino for Vogue Paris August 2007