The release of Vogue's May 2026 cover story arrives with calculated precision. Anna Wintour and Meryl Streep share the spotlight to promote the upcoming theatrical release of The Devil Wears Prada 2. The interview sits at the intersection of Hollywood promotion and political commentary. Filmmaker Greta Gerwig moderates the conversation with a distinct focus on sartorial power.

The discussion inevitably pivoted from cinematic fashion to the reality of the political stage.

Wintour utilized the moment to establish a clear hierarchy of political style. She praised former First Lady Michelle Obama for her ability to seamlessly transition between accessible J.Crew pieces and Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel. Wintour then directed her admiration toward New York City’s new First Lady. She highlighted Rama Duwaji for her modern reliance on vintage garments.

The praise for Melania Trump was noticeably restrained.

Duwaji brings a distinct sartorial perspective to her new civic role. She was photographed for the special cover wearing a structured black jacket from the French label Jacquemus. Her background in illustration clearly informs her sharp visual identity.

Wintour appreciates this curated approach to public dressing.

Streep immediately referenced a defining artifact of the previous administration. She brought up the infamous green Zara trench coat worn by Trump in 2018. The jacket bore the painted phrase stating she really did not care. Trump wore the garment while visiting the New Hope Children's Shelter in McAllen, Texas. Streep described it as the most powerful message sent by the former First Lady.

The actor framed the controversial outerwear as a prime example of historical and political expectation.

The decision to wear a fast-fashion item to a border crisis remains a subject of intense academic debate. Trump insisted the message was aimed exclusively at the left-wing media. Critics viewed the garment as a stunning display of apathy toward incarcerated migrant children. The incident fundamentally altered how the public interprets the daily wardrobe choices of political spouses.

She called this visual vulnerability an apology built into women.

Streep expanded her critique beyond a single garment. She observed a systemic gender disparity in visual power dynamics. She expressed astonishment at how female leaders are often expected to bare their arms on television. Men consistently remain fully covered in tailored suits and ties.

Trump previously addressed the lingering controversy surrounding the cargo jacket.

Vogue has historically maintained a strict editorial boundary regarding the Trump administration. Wintour defended the decision to exclude Trump from the cover during her husband's term back in 2019. The magazine chose instead to profile figures like Kamala Harris. Wintour argued that Condé Nast publications must stand up for specific values in an era dominated by political polarization.

A spokesperson for Trump previously dismissed the fashion publication as insecure and entirely small-minded.

The casting of Streep as Miranda Priestly established a lasting cultural archetype. Wintour admitted she consulted the actor before approving the sequel project. Streep read the script and assured the editor that the narrative was sound.

The two women also shared personal reflections on aging and their shared experiences as grandmothers.

Streep described the evolving dynamic with her family as a divine experience. She expressed deep gratitude for the time her children allow her to spend with her grandchildren. It was a rare moment of domestic vulnerability in an interview otherwise dominated by sharp political commentary and high-stakes cinematic promotion.

Fashion is never just about fabric. It is the visual language of power.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does The Devil Wears Prada 2 come out?

The sequel releases in theaters nationwide on May 1, 2026. Meryl Streep reprises her role as Miranda Priestly.

Who moderated the Vogue interview with Anna Wintour and Meryl Streep?

Filmmaker Greta Gerwig moderated the joint interview for Vogue's May 2026 cover story.

What did Meryl Streep say about Melania Trump's jacket?

Streep criticized the Zara jacket Trump wore in 2018 to a Texas migrant children's shelter. She described the garment's printed message as a powerful and highly scrutinized political statement.

Who is Rama Duwaji?

Rama Duwaji is the First Lady of New York City and is married to Mayor Zohran Mamdani. She was praised by Anna Wintour for her modern vintage style and wore Jacquemus for the Vogue feature.

Why did Anna Wintour stop putting Republican first ladies on the Vogue cover?

Wintour stated in 2019 that Condé Nast publications must take a point of view. She prefers to profile female leaders who align with the magazine's political and social values.

Which designers did Anna Wintour mention Michelle Obama wearing?

Wintour highlighted Obama's ability to mix accessible and high-end fashion. She specifically referenced brands like J.Crew, Duro Olowu, and Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel.