Harris’s sartorial choices, from her Christopher John Rogers outfit at the 2021 inauguration to her Chloé suit at the Democratic National Convention, are carefully curated and carry subtle yet unavoidable messaging. Her style choices, like those of other politicians, serve as a form of fashion diplomacy, conveying messages to the public and the world. While there may not always be an intended message behind what she wears, the public and the media cannot help but assign one based on how people in power choose to present themselves. This is true for politicians like Tim Walz, President Biden, and even former President Barack Obama, whose fashion choices have been scrutinized and discussed.
The scrutiny around Harris’s fashion choices raises questions about the relevance and importance of discussing what she wears. While some may argue that focusing on her style is inconsequential, the reality is that fashion is inextricably linked to culture and plays a significant role in shaping perceptions of politicians. Whether it’s the suffragists wearing white, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez carrying a Telfar bag, or Hillary Clinton making the pantsuit a symbol of her campaign, political figures’ style choices carry meaning and significance beyond mere aesthetics. What Harris chooses to wear matters, not because she is expected to be fashion-forward or trendy, but because her clothing sends a message about the country and her role within it.
Fashion is a powerful tool for communication, especially in the world of politics where optics play a crucial role in shaping public perception. Harris’s fashion choices, from her custom Chloé suit to her previous outfits, are carefully curated to convey specific messages about her identity and values. Whether she is wearing a statement gown at a state dinner or a tailored suit at a political event, Harris uses her clothing as a form of self-expression and communication. The public’s interest in her wardrobe reflects a larger cultural phenomenon where fashion and politics intersect in ways that are both symbolic and substantive.
The relationship between fashion and politics is complex and multifaceted, often reflecting broader societal trends and values. Harris’s fashion choices, like those of other politicians, are scrutinized and analyzed because what they wear matters beyond aesthetics. Clothing can convey messages about power, identity, and values, making it a key element of political communication and diplomacy. Whether it’s Harris’s choice of a designer suit or a casual accessory, every detail of her wardrobe is subject to interpretation and discussion, highlighting the significance of fashion in shaping public perception and discourse around political figures. As Harris continues to navigate her role as Vice President, her fashion choices will continue to be a topic of interest and analysis, revealing the intricate interplay between style and politics in contemporary culture.
