As the 2024 presidential election approaches, many are closely following the dueling candidates’ social media campaigns, rallies, and promised agendas to inform their vote in November. In this process of navigating each candidate’s offerings, people often disregard the candidate's fashion choices, which can be a strategic tool. Kamala Harris, Donald Trump, and other notable political figures like Michelle Obama have all intentionally adorned themselves on the campaign trail to make a statement. Whether it be the shoes they wear or the colors they select, candidates are hyper-aware of their style during election season because it's an additional tool to convey ideas that resonate with their intended audience.
Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee, strategically selects when to opt for simple attire versus when to pull out bright, playful looks. For example, during a CNN interview with Dana Bash in August, Harris wore a well-tailored dark gray suit with an American flag pin on the left side of the lapel. The suit indicates professionalism, the color reflects her seriousness, and the flag exhibits her patriotism. In this moment and other formal events, Harris styles neutral-toned pantsuits to keep herself level with her male counterparts with the intention of not letting her gender be her campaign’s focus.
Harris and other notable women who she has brought along with her on the trail like Michelle Obama and Beyonce have all notably worn pantsuits which can be seen as a subtle move to dismantle patriarchal standards.
At more social events, like the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Awards and Dinner, Harris wore a stunning black sequined, maxi evening gown with an asymmetrical neckline designed by LaQuan Smith, a luxury, black fashion designer. In this setting, Harris departed from the typical tailored suit and opted for a piece that captured her femininity yet preserved her elegance. At more casual campaign events like state rallies, Harris has been seen wearing vibrant colored suits and Converse which she uses to come off as relatable, fun, and welcoming to catch the eye of younger voters.
On the opposite side of the campaign, Donald Trump, the Republican candidate, has a much more consistent corporate style consisting of tailored navy suits paired with a bright red tie and dress shoes. Trump’s signature look reflects a prepared, strong, and reliable attitude (due to the lack of variation). Additionally, the typical color palette of navy blue, red, and white simultaneously reflects his patriotic ideals. Trump’s wardrobe choices help him resonate with his more traditional, conservative audience who value professionalism and low ambiguity.
Overall, both candidates clearly utilize their styles to resonate with their differing audiences to capture their varying visions for America. Next time you tune into a candidates’ rally or interview, take note of their outfits, which may be intentionally curated to make a minor political statement.
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