By Tania Rana
With election day right around the corner all eyes are on the two presidential candidates. As a chronically online college student, the first thing I make note of is what they are wearing. These candidates have access to some of the best stylists in order to curate an image that shows off who they are and what they want for the nation. While I am not expecting them to show up dressed in the latest fashion trends or with “Hailey Bieber nails,” even a standard suit can be altered to create a lasting image for the public.
Recently we have seen Tim Walz, the Democratic vice-presidential candidate, wearing baseball caps on the campaign trail. While baseball caps have been a staple in American fashion for years, recently baseball caps are being used to display individuality in fashion as trends constantly come and go on social media. Often referred to as the “people’s crown” baseball caps are being used to add a pop of color or to add a personal touch by referencing favorite bands and teams. Walz’s use of various styles of baseball caps shows his relatability and adds to his image as a “family man”, and emphasizes his past as a high school football coach. His use of a camouflage printed baseball cap while speaking with hunters was a nice touch as it was a physical representation of his interest in hunting. As a young voter, I appreciate how Walz is stepping away from the usual campaign-branded hats and is showing an interest in the places he is visiting through his fashion choices.
While Walz has shown his personality through caps, presidential candidate Kamala Harris has stayed true to her style with jewel-toned pantsuits and pearls, a reference to her sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha. I think it is important for Harris to stick to the structured pantsuits and pointed heels as they project a strong and dependable image. The use of shoulder pads and sharply tailored trousers add a sense of strength to her silhouette, thus helping her physically stand out when standing next to her much taller running mates. Harris has done an impeccable job at making a statement with her fashion choices. During the Democratic National Convention, Harris wore a crisp two-piece tan suit by Chloé, a fun nod to former President Barack Obama’s controversial tan suit. In 2014, Obama garnered criticism for attending a White House news conference in a suit that lacked the seriousness a black or navy piece would have. I find Harris’s subtle playfulness refreshing as she is sticking to suits that are already a part of her brand, while adding references which will leave people talking.
On the other hand, we have not seen much change from Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump as he has stayed true to his well-known red ties. The bright red ties, which both Trump and vice president candidate Vance wear, have become a symbol of the Republican party. As a voter it projects an image of a strong connection between the pair. However, I find that Vance’s choice to dress so similarly to Trump gives the impression of a loyal “mini-me.” Historically, red has also been worn to project aggression and power by military leaders. This can be quite off-putting to the majority of young voters who have seen so much violence around the world in the past few years.
At the end of the day, we are not voting for the candidate who we think has better style. I think each candidates’ fashion choices, whether it be baseball caps or shiny red ties, naturally draws positive attention from their partisans, regardless of their performance in debates and rallies. I am curious to see how these fashion choices play a part in the outcome of the election.