Political Style: Kamala Harris’s Historic Presidential Run Through Fashion
By: Abby Adamo
“Dress for the job you want.” That is exactly what Kamala Harris did during her historic presidential campaign. As the first woman of color nominated for president by a major political party, her wardrobe choices were not just about looking polished– they were about making statements. Harris, fitted in pearls, pumps, and suits, challenged America’s traditional ideas of women in power and communicated her readiness to lead our country. This is the uniform of our very first female vice president and most recent Democratic president nominee.
The foundation of Harris’s campaign wardrobe were her pantsuits. While being a smart and sophisticated fashion choice, she used accessories and color to symbolize a greater meaning behind each outfit. Her pearl necklace that she often wears is a nod to her sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha and the Twenty Pearls that represent the sisterhood’s founders. She also wears an American flag pin on the lapel of her blazers, emphasizing her patriotism and paying homage to the country she represents. Her choices of suit color communicate messages about her values and campaign priorities. At a "Unite for America" rally, she wore a royal purple suit, a color historically associated with unity and bipartisanship. At the Democratic National Convention, her tan suit subtly referenced Barack Obama’s iconic tan suit. Fashion can be so much more than just the clothes in your closet and Harris demonstrates this with her strategic styling choices.
Harris’s tan Chloé suit at the Democratic National Convention.
Image from: The New York Times, “Kamala Harris’s Tan Suit Surprise”
Harris is not just restricted to paint suits and exhibits versatility in her wardrobe. At the Phoenix Awards, Harris opted for a stunning black sequined gown. Conversely, at rallies and on the go, she embraced a more casual look– jeans paired with blazers, occasionally with Converse sneakers. This allowed her to be practical while also professional and staying true to her signature style. During a trip to Augusta to survey hurricane damage, she chose black leather boots and a windbreaker emblazoned with the vice-presidential seal, prioritizing functionality without sacrificing style.
Harris was also mindful of the environment of different events and rallies and chose outfits that reflected this. This is demonstrated at her rally in Detroit where she wore a “Detroit vs. Everybody” t-shirt, connecting directly with the local community.
A maroon pantsuit and bow blouse for an event in Houston alongside Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland or jeans and a camel blazer for a rally in Georgia with Obama, Harris has managed to maintain her appropriate and sophisticated style choices throughout the frenziedness of running for president. Her style has been relatable while also a proper representation of a powerful woman and with each outfit there is a historic moment that will live alongside it.
Harris’s maroon pantsuit at a rally with Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland.
Image from: The New York Times, “Beyoncé Campaigns with Harris in Texas”
What Kamala Harris achieved for women during her campaign is far greater than the sum of her fashion choices. The ability to analyze a presidential candidate's outfits is a reflection of how far American politics and leadership have come, with a female nominee who embraces style as an extension of her identity and message. While her outfits may not be what will ultimately define her, the historic moments she created while wearing them will last for generations.