Fashion and politics may appear to be distinct realms, but for women in positions of power, they often intersect in undeniable ways. Male politicians can routinely don the same navy suit without raising eyebrows, while every fashion choice made by a woman is subjected to rigorous analysis and debate, often morphing into a symbol. Ideally, their clothing would be as inconsequential as that of their male counterparts; however, reality presents a stark contrast.
For female leaders, fashion transcends mere aesthetics. Expensive attire is labeled as out of touch, while simpler outfits are perceived as lacking personality. Dressing too femininely is deemed weak, whereas a more masculine look invites accusations of overcompensation. This cycle of contradictory standards underscores a profound truth: women in power face scrutiny based on their appearance as much as their qualifications. For every woman, regardless of her political stature, appearance remains paramount.
Discussions around fashion in politics may appear trivial, yet they mirror broader societal issues concerning gender, power, and the excessively high expectations placed on women. Here’s an exploration of how the phenomenon of power dressing—and the policing of that concept—has manifested in the careers of notable female politicians.
Angela Rayner: Navigating Class and Style
When Angela Rayner, a member of the Labour Party, donned a chic £550 pantsuit, she faced a wave of criticism claiming she had abandoned her working-class roots. For many, her sleek attire represented a disconcerting departure from relatability, contradicting the stereotype that working-class women should appear modest. Yet, Rayner later disclosed that the suits were gifted by Lord Alli, the Labour party’s largest donor, which exposes the superficiality of the critics’ remarks—though one must wonder if it truly matters who financed the outfit.
This backlash illuminated a double standard: male politicians frequently sport costly tailored suits without encountering accusations of disconnecting from their working-class identities.
Ultimately, the uproar wasn’t fundamentally about the outfit but rather about class dynamics. For working-class women in politics, the obligation to project authenticity is relentless. Although a tailored suit should convey authority, for Rayner, it became yet another tool for critics to erode her legitimacy.
Had she opted for a less polished look, she would likely have faced even harsher criticism—one only needs to recall the comical suits worn by Boris Johnson, which often went unchecked. This mirrors previous events where Rayner was rebuked for attending the opera, with critics again questioning her dedication to her working-class identity.
Theresa May: Footwear as a Distraction
Theresa May’s affinity for kitten heels, particularly a striking leopard-print pair, captured headlines repeatedly. While some perceived her footwear as a lighthearted deviation from the norm, it often overshadowed her professional achievements. This fixation on her shoes was more than trivial; it questioned her seriousness as a leader. When male politicians are scrutinized, the primary focus remains on their policies rather than their appearance.
Men do occasionally receive backlash for their wardrobe, as evidenced by Jeremy Corbyn’s “scruffiness” and Barbour coat, which drew criticism for not portraying a polished leader. Nevertheless, such critiques pale in comparison to the significant scrutiny faced by women, where the nature and genre of the examination introduce an extra dimension of discrimination.
While Boris Johnson’s unkempt style was often deemed charming or genuine, Theresa May’s choice of footwear became a liability, echoing the challenging standards women leaders confront. Any attire considered “too much” or overtly feminine is weaponized to question their competence, illustrating how women in leadership navigate an unforgiving terrain.
Michelle Obama and Kamala Harris: Identity in Fashion
Fashion extends beyond clothing—hair also carries political weight. Michelle Obama shared that she straightened her natural curls during her time as First Lady, concerned that portraying her hair naturally would divert attention from her responsibilities. This decision surpassed mere aesthetics; it mirrored the pressure faced by Black women to conform to Eurocentric standards of beauty to gain acceptance.
Kamala Harris encountered similar scrutiny throughout her campaign, where every detail—from her Converse sneakers to her meticulously styled hair—was placed under a microscope, often burdened with racial and cultural implications. Notably, her physical appearance was weaponized by opponents like Donald Trump to diminish her credibility, disrespecting her as a fellow candidate and political leader. For women of color, power dressing embodies the challenge of navigating stereotypes while maintaining authenticity.
Jacinda Ardern: Redefining Leadership Style
Former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, adopted a fresh perspective on power dressing. Known for her vibrant colors and floral patterns, she made a statement by donning a traditional Māori cloak at formal events, showcasing a blend of professionalism and authenticity. Her fashion choices also signaled a profound respect for New Zealand’s indigenous culture, reinforcing her inclusive leadership style.
Nonetheless, Ardern faced criticism during her UK tour, with some questioning the appropriateness of a pricey New Zealand designer dress, echoing perceptions of extravagance. However, her choices often illuminated how clothing can serve as a medium for connection, especially regarding cultural representation—wearing a Māori cloak at significant occasions symbolized her acknowledgment of New Zealand’s Indigenous heritage, while the designer outfit highlighted her commitment to promoting New Zealand artists.
@metrouk Former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, has just delivered her emotional final address to parliament. Ardern announced her shock resignation in January saying she didn’t ‘have enough in the tank to carry on’. #newzealand #news #globalnews #jacindaardern #politics #politicsnews #parliament #fyp #nz #primeminister
♬ original sound – MetroUK
However, Ardern’s approach to style may have been more accessible as a white woman leading a smaller nation, which generally attracts less global scrutiny than leaders of more dominant countries. A leader of color, like Kamala Harris in the United States, might face claims of alienation for wearing culturally significant attire, highlighting the distinct pressures that racialized expectations impose on political figures. Furthermore, New Zealand’s comparatively limited media exposure can provide Ardern with greater latitude in her fashion choices, allowing her to engage with these dynamics with less external pressure.
The Significance of Power Dressing
Why does this scrutiny matter? After all, aren’t they just clothes? Not quite. The stringent examination of women’s fashion choices goes beyond superficiality—it underscores societal tendencies to police women in positions of power. Fashion can serve as a tool for questioning their credibility, diverting attention from their accomplishments, or reducing them to mere appearance. This issue extends beyond individual experiences; it encapsulates systemic sexism and the ongoing fight for gender equality in leadership.
When discussions revolve around Angela Rayner’s pantsuit or Theresa May’s shoes, we reinforce the notion that women in authority must adhere to unattainable standards, often requiring them to minimize expressions of femininity to earn respect. This focus diverts attention from their policies, perpetuating antiquated beliefs about who is qualified to lead. Even those in influential roles must deftly navigate a landscape fraught with gendered expectations, where each decision—whether related to clothing or conduct—becomes a subject of contention.
Yet, there is power in resistance. Leaders like Jacinda Ardern exemplify that leadership need not conform to a singular mold, demonstrating that there is no “right” way to command authority. Conversely, figures like Michelle Obama and Kamala Harris continue to navigate the intricate expectations of conformity while facing the compounded pressures of racial scrutiny and adherence to beauty norms.
Ultimately, the complexities of power dressing reveal that it’s not merely about clothing but about the narratives they convey and the obstacles they reveal, including the stereotypes discussed. Until women in power are evaluated solely on their professional contributions, the politics of power dressing will remain a critical dialogue in society.
