Disclaimer: This article is about style, not politics. While we recognize that everyone holds their own political views—all of which we deeply respect—we're here to celebrate something that brings us together: our shared appreciation for personal style.
Politics has always been considered a men's game. In movies, we have Claire Underwood in "House of Cards" and Kate Wyler in "Diplomat", but in real life, women in high political office remain relatively few. There was never a female president in the United States, and the highest position a woman has held is Vice President. So, for any female who decides to run for President, their public image becomes incredibly important, and their appearance should be carefully crafted depending on the message they want to project.
This is how women in politics are envisioned in the movies
In Kamala Harris's case, the message seems directed at her male politician colleagues: "I'm your equal" and at all people of America who are going to vote: "I'm strong, and I'm a leader". How does she communicate this? Just look at her outfits she has worn on the campaign trail and in office. Can you notice a pattern?
Emerald suit. Getty Images
Tan suit. Getty Images
Navy suit. Getty Images
Vice President definitely loves sharp, tailored pantsuits. Nothing can beat a pantsuit when it comes to conveying authority and power—a fact well understood by men in politics. It's no coincidence that Harris prefers pantsuits to dresses or skirts: a presidential candidate needs a strong silhouette and clothes that allow to walk and bear with confidence. Her jackets are typically single-breasted, and while she favors wide-leg or tapered trousers, she's been spotted in flared styles as well.
Kamala Harris surrounded by men and looking in tune with them. Of course, body language is very important (she is focused, holds herself erect and walks with a sure step), but pantsuit she's wearing also helps to give the right impression
Looking at the Vice President's pictures from recent weeks, the phrase "dress for the job you want" comes to mind. After announcing her run for presidency (which can be interpreted as a chance for a huge job promotion), Harris seems to have created her own distinct uniform: a well-fitting pantsuit, soft and feminine blouse, and signature strands of pearls. By the way, there's a special meaning behind her pearls: they are connected to Kamala’s sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha. The sorority founders are known as “twenty pearls”, and each new AKA member is given a badge with 20 pearls.
When someone creates their own uniform, it often evolves into their personal brand. When you hear the name of Donald Trump, what comes to your mind instantly? Likely, you envision him in a blue suit, white shirt, and red tie. This is because he has his personal brand, too. His uniform is more rigid: his suits typically share similar cuts, and he frequently dresses in the colors of the American flag, which is very metaphorical.
Kamala Harris, however, takes a different approach. The kind of leadership she projects is a soft power, which aligns more naturally with her personality—we can often see her smiling or laughing. Also, it allows her more flexibility with her personal style. She wears different colors, most often it's neutrals (in particular, she has a weak spot for navy and gray) and jewel tones, and occasionally we can see her in pastel shades such as sky blue and lavender. I think, it's a conscious decision not to use overly bright, attention-grabbing colors like red; it seems as she doesn't want her clothes to speak louder than her voice and her message.
Instagram/@kamalaharris
AFP via Getty Images
This soft power approach also shows in the variety of her looks. Keeping her outfits within pantsuit parameters, Vice President can opt for a pussy bow blouse, silky shirt, or even a graphic t-shirt. Her signature pearls sometimes can be replaced with a chunky chain, elegant pumps—with Converse shoes (a brand she has favored for years), and instead of wide-leg pants there even can be jeans (always classic, never acid washed or distressed). But if she switches one element of her uniform, the rest remains consistent, so any person can recognize her signature style and personal brand.
Tailored pants gave way to jeans. Blazer and pearls are still in place. Instagram/@kamalaharris
Informal, basic black t-shirt worn with a suit. Pay attention that the lower button is unbuttoned —this is how men traditionally wear their blazers. Tiny, yet meaningful detail. Instagram/@kamalaharris
Something unusual for a campaign rally: utility jacket. It was paired with tailored black pants, leather pumps, plain t-shirt and Tiffany necklace. Lots of changes, but the signature style is still recognizable. Getty Images
If you ask me if Kamala Harris looks good in her newly-updated style, my answer is: yes, she does, and you likely would too. The pieces she wears command leadership, but the cuts are classic and will be flattering on many body shapes. Her frequent use of neutral colors provides a safe haven for anyone looking to create a similar professional wardrobe. So, if you are seeking a promotion, too, you can use the same principles Vice President does: create a signature look built on well-fitting, high-quality classic pieces, add a couple of personal touches (for Harris it's definitely her pearls) and—most importantly—radiate confidence! After all, a thoughtfully curated wardrobe isn't just about looking polished—it's about feeling empowered to take on whatever challenges lie ahead.
