The truth is, fashion is political. It’s always been that way. It has served as a form of revolution for as long as we can remember, across history, myth, and borders. For example, during the French Revolution, the upper middle class adopted working class dress as a symbol of solidarity. At that time, during the Reign of Terror, people used clothing to express their political beliefs, that is, to reflect personal ideals rather than social status.
Similarly, Mahatma Gandhi’s Swadeshi movement popularized the use of khadi, a hand-woven fabric, as a symbol of independence and resistance to British colonial rule. Since then, it has become clear that these two ideals – personal beliefs and political expression – are closely intertwined.
Today, people in positions of power, such as politicians, vice presidents, singers, and first ladies, use clothing as a means of self-expression and choose to make statements through fashion, which plays an important role in how they communicate. This often happens. With the world. Consider Princess Diana’s iconic “revenge dress,” Hillary Clinton’s red pantsuit, and even Michelle Obama’s often empowering fashion choices that embody strength and inclusivity. And some people wear special clothing to make a strong political statement. Take Kamala Harris’ fashion during the presidential debates or Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s “tax the rich” dress at the Met Gala, which sent a clear message about wealth inequality. women in power.
In this story, we trace some of the most iconic fashion statements made by women in power and how they use clothing to influence and inspire the greater good. I introduced Taka.
michelle obama’s sleeveless dress
Michelle Obama is as fierce a woman as can be, and her actions continue to inspire belief in her strength. Among her many ceiling-shattering moves was wearing a black sleeveless dress during her husband Barack Obama’s first address to Congress. The stunning purple dress, designed by Narciso Rodriguez, showed off her toned arms, but was clearly controversial as in the past the first lady has been seen in more modest attire. However, breaking away from the norm quickly became her style and she began using her fashion choices as a voice to communicate with people. It continues even today.
wendy davis and her sneakers
A particularly powerful and memorable moment was that of Texas Sen. Wendy Davis, who gained national attention with her 13-hour filibuster to block Senate Bill 5, a controversial anti-abortion bill. Wearing his now-iconic pink Mizuno sneakers, Davis stood in the Senate chamber and spoke nonstop, without food, water or breaks, as time ran out. Her stand drew massive support, with thousands of people flooding into the Texas Capitol and millions watching online. Although the bill was ultimately passed in a later Congress, Davis’ courageous efforts became a defining moment in the fight for women’s rights, and her sneakers of choice remain a timeless symbol of determination and defiance. continues to be.
Hillary Clinton and her striking red pantsuit
In 2016, Hillary Clinton wore a striking red pantsuit while campaigning for president, a choice that drew heavy criticism from both the media and political opponents. The outfit was seen as a bold departure from her usual attire, which often consisted of muted tones, and was interpreted by some as an expression of defiance and strength. Although critics noted the brightness of the suit and its potential to distract from her message, Clinton’s decision to wear a suit was a powerful fashion moment. Pant suits are often associated with power and authority, and were a clear statement of her willingness to challenge gender norms and stereotypes. It also coincided with her broader campaign for women’s rights and empowerment.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg and her lace-up collar
Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s lace collar, or “jabot,” became one of her most famous trademarks, symbolizing both her individuality and her support for gender equality. As a Supreme Court Justice, she often wears a jabot over her judge’s robes, choosing different designs for different occasions and even adding more intricate collars for important rulings and events. there was. More than just a fashion choice, this accessory became a symbol of her intelligence, strength, and determination. The Jabot allowed Ginsburg to stand out in a male-dominated profession while expressing her personal style, and served as a reminder of her pioneering work for women’s rights.
Jackie Kennedy’s bloody pink suit
Jackie Kennedy’s pink Chanel suit worn at the time of her husband JFK’s assassination in 1963 became a powerful symbol of the devastation of that day. After the tragic shooting incident, she chose to continue wearing the suit, even though it was covered in blood from her husband’s wounds. Historians note that she could have changed into another dress, but Jackie showed incredible strength and dignity and refused. Since then, the sight of her in her bloody suit has become a poignant reminder of the tragedy, symbolizing both her personal grief and her quiet resilience in the face of an unimaginable moment in history. There is.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s red lipstick
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s (AOC) signature look, hoop earrings and bold red lip, has become a powerful symbol of her unapologetic identity and approach to politics, but it has also drawn criticism. Some critics attempted to disparage her by focusing on her appearance, calling her hoop earrings and red lipstick “unprofessional” or “distracting.” However, AOC turned these comments into defiant statements. The earrings represented her working-class roots and cultural pride, and the red lip represented her confidence. She also tweeted, “The lips and hoops were inspired by Sonia Sotomayor, who was advised to wear neutral nail polish to her confirmation hearing to avoid scrutiny.” She kept her face red. ” In this, AOC highlighted how she proudly embraced her style despite the backlash. He added, “Next time someone tells girls in the Bronx to take off their hoops, just tell them they’re dressed like congressmen.”
Indira Gandhi in a handwoven saree
Indira Gandhi’s sari was more than just a clothing choice, it was an intentional and powerful expression of identity, cultural pride, and political symbolism. As India’s first female prime minister, she often wears simple yet elegant sarees, typically in solid colors or in traditional hand-woven fabrics like khadi, which connect her to her Indian roots and the independence movement. Strengthened connections. Her wardrobe was a carefully crafted image that combined authority and friendliness. The sari, a symbol of Indian femininity, helped her navigate the complexities of leadership while remaining connected to her people.
revenge dress
Princess Diana’s 1994 Revenge Dress became one of her most iconic fashion moments. Hours after Prince Charles admitted the affair in a TV interview, she attended a party at London’s Serpentine Gallery wearing a black off-the-shoulder dress by designer Christina Stambolian. Bold, sexy, and sophisticated, the dress was seen as an intentional expression of independence and rebellion. This was a powerful visual message, conveying the message that Princess Diana had regained confidence and self-control in the face of personal betrayal and was moving forward on her own terms.
Kamala Harris’ black suit and cat bow
During a televised debate with Donald Trump, Kamala Harris paired a black power suit with a white pussy-bow blouse, creating a striking contrast with Trump’s bright blue suit and red tie. While the power suit, traditionally a male-dominated item, was a bold statement of strength and confidence, the blouse subtly references President Trump’s infamous “grab ’em” comment, emphasizing the phrase. It has become a symbol of empowerment. This costume was not only a fashion choice, but also meant a powerful round of applause.
Sonia and Priyanka Gandhi
Priyanka Chopra and Sonia Gandhi’s fashion choices are a modern homage to Indira Gandhi’s legacy. Priyanka often mixes Indian sarees with Western styles, flaunting her global identity while staying connected to her roots. The older Mrs. Gandhi, on the other hand, sticks to simple and elegant sarees, reflecting her understated authority as a leader. Like Indira Gandhi, both women use their clothes to express confidence and strength, balancing cultural pride with political presence. In their own way, they continue the tradition of strong women in Indian politics.
Lead image credit: Getty Images
Also read: 8 designers leading change through their fashion journeys
Also read: What the US presidential election means for women around the world
