Having watched the movie twice and reflecting after several years, my perspective has changed. While it still highlights the harsh realities of the fashion industry, I disagree with how Andy was treated by her friends and boyfriend. They mocked her for her new fashion sense and were only happy when she reverted to her old style. Her choice of clothing should be her own, yet her return to her previous wardrobe was celebrated, as was her newfound availability to friends and family. This criticism seems unfair, especially considering that if a man were working hard, it wouldn't be a big deal. Men are often praised for their ambition, while women can be criticized for the same behavior, particularly when it affects their personal relationships.
Additionally, the way her friends and boyfriend judged her highlights issues of control and acceptance in relationships. They seemed to only accept her if she stayed the same, which is problematic.
Although Andy shouldn't have had to endure a toxic boss, it's disappointing that the movie ends with her unlearning everything she had gained. It suggests that personal growth and change are only acceptable within certain boundaries, which feels like a step backward. Overall, while the movie still provides an interesting look into the fashion world, its messages about personal development and relationships feel more complex and less positive than they initially appeared.