Kamala Harris’s signature style is fresh, and certainly unique compared to any female politician this nation has seen. The pussycat bow blouses, flared pants, and Chloé suits are the revolutionary ingredients of Kamala’s closet. However, clothes are much more than what is worn on the body, but something that communicates value and identity. We want to be perceived a certain way and to make a lasting impression on others. Kamala’s wardrobe holds a deeper meaning. Her clothes send a message to voters across the nation, while also reflecting pieces of her values and identity.
Kamala’s subtle messaging through her dress shows her calculated approach toward her campaign and her identity as a woman, but also as an African American and Indian American woman. Dr. Tara L. Conley, professor at the School of Media & Journalism at Kent State University, elaborates on Kamala’s identity through her campaign messaging.
“I could see her campaign strategists thinking about how her identity as a Black and Indian American woman running for president could speak to segments of the constituency,” Dr. Conley said. “I think, though, Harris and her team are being very mindful in how she talks about her identity personally and in terms of policy, so as not to isolate potential supporters and voters.”
The mindfulness in Kamala’s speeches and her campaign is reflected on her sense of style as well. Because Kamala is a fresh, new presidential candidate, voters across the nation are analyzing her every move. Her choice of color, style and accessories are much more than what meets the eye.
On the last night of the Democratic Convention, Kamala showcased a European navy pantsuit as she accepted the Democratic Presidential nomination, while other women attendees wore white to honor the women’s suffrage movement. Kamala’s bold fashion choice clearly communicated that she didn’t want her political campaign to be focused on her identity as a woman, but on her abilities to run this country. Commissioning editor and author of “Fashion, Women, and Power: The Politics of Dress” Dr. Denise Rall emphasizes the symbolism behind Kamala’s calculated fashion choice for this historical event.
“Kamala’s style represents the term ‘sartorial diplomacy’, which means dressing to build ties,” Rall said. “She’s certainly trying to build ties with all kinds of people who can vote, but also everyone world-wide is nervous about her opponent. Her nod to Europe through her clothing shows a bit of edge to what she’s doing.”
Kamala’s affiliation with European designers sets her apart from first ladies and other female politicians who came before her. Hillary’s devotion to the quintessential American designer, Ralph Lauren, showed a sense of personal patriotism, while Kamala’s style shows her sentiment for other countries and their strengths.
There’s also a familiarity with Kamala’s pantsuits since this was Hillary Clinton’s trademark throughout her presidential campaign, but Kamala’s wardrobe exhibits a nuanced version of femininity. Much of Hillary’s campaign focused on being a woman. Although Kamala isn’t denying she’s a woman, she’s subtly hinting that she is just as powerful as any man running for office without outwardly addressing it.
“Trump wears a blue suit, and so Harris will wear a blue suit. The blue suit is always going to be a symbol of power and authority,” Dr. Rall said. “The controversy with her is that she’s using European designers while going very high fashion. The world is a big place though, and Europe has always been the source of high fashion.”
Kamala’s wise actions and sophisticated wardrobe are all details that matter with Election Day approaching rapidly. Her messages through her fashion speak volumes about what she values as a presidential candidate, and what she may accomplish as the potential president of the United States.
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