Crossword Genius

Was Observer’s fashion to retreat before its boss? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

noted

'was observer's' is the definition.
(to note something is to act as an observer)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for noted that I've seen before include "Having renown" , "Renowned" , "Scored" , "Significant" , "Remarked - famous" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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