On January 20, 2021, America’s political women stepped onto the inauguration platform in an array of colors. This is not new, women in politics have always worn color. So why are we noticing this now? And, more relevant for our discussion, why are academic women celebrating their bold choices on social media? Perhaps it is because this year the narrative wasn’t “the women behind the men,” but instead about women taking the lead. Or it is because they did the unthinkable by provoking conversations about women’s appearance that didn’t contradict their intelligence. For me, women have always been ahead in class. So it is about damn time we recognize it! This year, female politicians redefined powerhouse style and sense, while their male counterparts appeared as ushers in single-toned black suits.
Michelle Obama wore a "long-ass" (to quote Yen) maroon tailored coat by Sergio Hudson that would make any Gotham vigilante jealous. Kamala Harris stunning purple midi dress and coat to match by Christopher John Rogers would fit garden tea party with the queen mum.
Christopher John Rogers, “Black women understood why I didn’t shy away from color.”
Still, it was Dr. Jill Biden’s blue wool tweed coat and dress that epitomized Ivory Class for this blogger (in case you didn’t know, it’s Mags). The mix of tweed, a hallmark of academic style, and chiffon, an accent of femininity, combined smarts and style.
Here, I must add a side note that the appellation “Dr.” is not up for a culture war debate. The years in graduate school are no joke; they lay at one’s feet many challenges. So, anyone who manages to run the course of obstacles and defend deserves to be recognized for the hella work they did. Period. End.
First Lady Jill Biden wore a design by Alexandra O’Neill, who founded the label Markarian. The midi length dress with a sheer boat neck mirrored the iconic styles of royalties such as Grace Kelly and Dianna. And not to get too political, it echoed the administration’s sentimental message, “restore the soul of the nation.” More than that, her sensible choice of Markarian, a label that is sustainability-minded with all clothing made-to-order in order to reduce waste, proved that fashion doesn’t have to come at the cost of the environment.
In the spirit of celebrating bold styles, I couldn’t end this post without throwing the spotlight on Amanda Gorman, the National Youth Poet Laureate, who captivated the nation with her poem "The Hill we Climb" and a yellow coat and red headband by Prada. The striking red crescent neatly placed on her braided locks asserted an ability to speak her mind.
Amanda Gorman, "In everything that you write, write something that is larger than yourself."
And Ella Emhoff, Vice President Harris’ daughter, who made off with modeling contract wearing a miu miu coat.
Lastly, while the title of this blog is “The Year of Women in Color,” I must give honorable mention to one man, Bernie Sanders, for reminding us that making a fashionable statement can be as understated as a pair of mittens made from recycled sweaters.
I can't wait to see other bold moves whether in fashion and/or politics from these women in 2021.
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