Campaign Trail or Runway?

There are various reasons why one might not rigorously follow politics. Maybe you argue that your individual opinion won't make a difference, or that you're too busy to watch the nightly news, but whether you live for notifications from CNN or avoid political discussions at all costs, there's no denying the presence of American politics in our lives. While it's not practical to 'judge a book by its cover,' our perceptions of political candidates are often shaped by their appearance. Our first impression of a politician wearing an ill-fitting suit may pale in comparison to that of his on-trend, put together opponent. On today's campaign trail to 2020, political candidates are striving to win our support. In the process, they've established their signature style, which can give insights to each candidate's identity.

Joe Biden

The success of Joe Biden's campaign relies on his popularity with working-class voters. Because of this, his style reflects that of the 'everyday working man' by wearing casual button-downs and leaving the conservative, stuffy suits at home. While commenting on the impeachment of President Trump, at a campaign event, Biden rolls up his cuffs, pops a button, and dons his signature aviators. His laidback style makes him seem relatable to potential voters and ensures that "he's the one who can compete with the guy in the office," as described by the New York Times. The Democratic party is looking for a change, and many times that can be found through the new viewpoints that diversity brings. While Biden's centrist views and long political career might not be the answer, he is still leading the race. Voters perceive his easygoing, casual style as one of someone human, grounded, makes mistakes, and is therefore approachable.

Elizabeth Warren

Elizabeth Warren keeps it simple but doesn't shy away from making a statement. Her outfits follow the same equation: simple black pants and top paired with a jewel-toned jacket. It's all in the details when it comes to the jacket; specifically, it's three-quarter length sleeves that emulate the idea that she could "dive into a messy situation without pausing to worry about her nice frock.". Her calculated ensemble assures voters that she's put together and ready to assess any issue she faces. Her polished look works well for her established brand, someone professional yet still relatable, and therefore would give her the push she needs to top the polls if we based this campaign on fashion. Warren knows what works for her and is working to assure America that she knows what works for them.

Bernie Sanders

Bernie Sanders tends to lean towards the disheveled side of the political fashion spectrum. With a style similar to that of your grandpa's, he doesn't land high on the fashion polls; even though he is currently in third place with a polling average of 15%. Sanders is a true example that this simplified world isn't ideal, because his attraction lies in his policies rather than his appearances. He takes pride in the fact that many of his policies, like raising the minimum wage and making public college free for all, no longer seem so radical after his campaigning. Kemal Harris, a costume designer for the Netflix show House of Cards argued that there's a "fine balance between looking your best and being believable," so his disheveled appearance works to his advantage.

Pete Buttigieg

For standing out by being "the only left-handed Maltese-American-Episcopalian-gay-millennial-war veteran in the race," Pete Buttigieg finds common ground with previous presidential candidates through his traditional style. He combines Biden's idea of dressing like the 'everyday-working-man' and Warren's method of sticking to what you know to form his brand. As the youngest candidate, Buttigieg can often be seen as the 'new kid on the block' and, if elected, would be America's youngest president. While this look, which he wore while announcing his presidential campaign, is a nod to tradition that shows his maturity, Buttigieg adds his spin by losing the suit jacket and choosing a slimmer tie.

Kamala Harris

While Elizabeth Warren adds personality to her pantsuits with pops of color, Kamala Harris uses her pearls. Harris targets both progressives and moderates in her campaign. With such a broad reach, it's easy to fall into the background of the race along with the other politicians who share the focus group. Her pearls soften the rigid perception of suits and allow her to be approachable among the crowd. Although less is often more, pearls are historically an accessory of first ladies, like Barbara Bush, and other female politicians, so keep Harris on your fashion radar.

There are many honorable mentions: Beto O'Rourke who takes every opportunity to make himself – and his casual button-downs – seen; President Trump, with his ill-fitting suits and now iconic hairstyle; or Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who isn't running for president, yet still stirred controversy with her gold hoops and red lipstick on the Congress floor. While these aspects of politics are superficial, they still make a difference. It takes seven seconds to form a first impression, which is not nearly enough time to hash out a candidate's stances on immigration or climate issues. A pair of sunglasses, a string of pearls, or a simple rolled sleeve can change the way someone is perceived. New York Times explains it well: politicians are often making a statement without even saying something.

Strike Out,

Writer: Haley Hauk-Landon

Editors: Giselle Parks and Savannah Tindall

Tallahassee

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