From one-on-one interviews and press junkets to sold out shows and book signings, Michelle Obama’s travel schedule to promote her memoir, Becoming, is on fire. And, to many, so is her fashion. Consistently making waves and showing her arms, the First Lady was known for her fashion while in the White House. Commentators would wait with baited breath to see what she was going to wear, and bloggers made careers on posting her outfits. As a private citizen her choices have become even more daring. She’s wearing everyone from international fashion houses to independent, Black designers and colors from purple to soft pink to black. The fashion community is loving it. Not only is Michelle Obama an example of a wicked smart, powerful woman, balancing career, life, and family, but she looks sooooo good while being it. During her most recent book store stop in Atlanta, GA, the former wore a purple suit and, wait for it ……. a sequin bustier. This look is probably one of my favs! Check out this look and others below.
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If there was a fight between Anna Wintour and Melania Trump, I would bet on Ms. Wintour. She’s feisty, she’s been in the fashion industry longer than Melania’s been a citizen, and she doesn’t take any sh*t from anyone.
So, why Melania had the AUDACITY to call out the Vogue editor about a CNN interview where her name was never actually mentioned is truly beyond me. She’s taking pages from her husband’s playbook, but it’s not necessary. At. All. CNN reported on April 5, 2019, Chief International Anchor Christiane Amanpour interviewed Ms. Wintour in NYC. While on air, she discussed Vogue’s political coverage, the evolving role of women in politics, and some of the strong women, like Hillary Clinton, the fashion magazine has featured on the cover. Melania was never mentioned in the conversation. Afterward, Melania’s spokesperson issued the following statement: "To be on the cover of Vogue doesn’t define Mrs. Trump, she’s been there, done that long before she was First Lady. Her role as First Lady of the United States and all that she does is much more important than some superficial photo shoot and cover. "This just further demonstrates how biased the fashion magazine industry is, and shows how insecure and small-minded Anna Wintour really is. Unfortunately, Mrs. Trump is used to this kind of divisive behavior." To date, the Vogue editor hasn’t responded to the statement. But, then again, why would she? Melania has shied away from politics. Strong statements? None. Influential Initiatives? Where are they? Policy Proposals? Please. Melania's statement creates a problem that isn’t there – and creates drama for “dramas sake.” It also turns more scrutiny on the First Lady. If you'd like to be seen as a powerful woman in politics, then be a powerful woman in politics. (Insert shrug emoji).
I stumbled upon Gabriela Hearst because of one of her gorgeous purses. The purse had become viral carried on the arm of beautiful, pregnant, and glowing Meghan Markle. The minute I saw it on Elle USA's IG I shared the picture on my Insta Stories and followed the brand. The purse is called, "Demi."
From first glance Demi stood out. Even on a small iPhone 6 Plus screen. Her construction was clearly superb, creating a slouchy globe shape. Her leather looked soft, expensive, and like it smelled good (I love to smell leather). And, the simplicity of her design was so fitting for royalty - and for gals like me who like to make a statement from Capitol Hill to happy hour.
To me Demi emoted power, elegance, and fashion all at the same time - and today's Washington Post article told me why. According to Robin Givhan, Hearst's designs - like Demi - are "premised on translating female authority into a fashion aesthetic." Born in Uruguay, Hearst looks to appeal to the professional woman who is unapologetically and BOLDY herself. No wonder I liked the bag instantly! Hearst also looks to affect change with her collections. Givhan writes the designer believes "fashion, power and politics can be mutually beneficial." In the past two years, since the presidential election put Donald Trump in the White House, Hearst has also used fashion as a language of political engagement.
Many heard about Hearst after her suit appeared on the cover of Interview Magazine worn by Freshman Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Critics claimed the suit sent the wrong message for a then-incoming Member who spoke to the working class. (As if the working class can't appreciate clothing, but I digress!)
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While I missed the "frenzy" around the pictures, I appreciate Hearst for the design, the crispness of the suit, and the nod to Angela Davis. By merely intertwining politics, femininity, and professional wear she is taking a risk - one that many have tried, failed, or just never did.
A quick look at Hearst's website shows other accessories named after bad ass women, structured dresses and suits, and even an "ovary" sweater created for Planned Parenthood. I don't see plus sizes, but I hope extended sizes are on the way.
Because, the Washington Post is right - Hearst is helping women prepare for a new political era. And in this era, every woman is going to need to participate!
In 2018, stars walked across the Golden Globes red carpet in an almost somber like procession. Black was the main color, mostly worn in solidarity for those taking a stand against sexual harassment in the entertainment industry. The message was clear: It's time for an end to harassment.
A year later, the fight continues. The message and silent protest did, too. While various colors, glamorous threads, and over the top fashions returned, celebrities found small ways to show support and say TIME'S UP.
'The Handmaid's Tale' nominee Yvonne Strahovski holds a 'Time's Up' ribbon as she arrives for the 76th annual Golden Globe Awards on January 6.(Photo by VALERIE MACON / AFP)
Actress Laura Dern decorates her purse with a 'Time's Up' ribbon. (Photo by VALERIE MACON / AFP)
![]() Several news outlets covered attire worn by new Members of Congress on Swearing In Day. Newcomer Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez - and her shining white suit paying homage to the suffrage movement, Shirley Chisholm and Hillary Clinton - along with Nancy Pelosi, Rashida Tlaib, and Ayanna Pressley were among the electeds most covered. While many readers lauded this coverage, sighting the historic number of women being sworn in, others took offense to the fact that journalists were covering what our nation's leaders put on. I don’t mean to preach to the choir but: Give me a break! Commenting on what these women - and men for that matter, though a little boring, they were discussed too - wore doesn't reduce them to their clothing. The articles don't belittle their importance. In my opinion, it does the exact opposite. The beginning of a Congress is one of the most historic days one can experience as an elected official. I worked for a Member of Congress, I know. I imagine that what these elected officials wore was carefully selected. As they took they oath of office, many used fashion as a weapon, a canvas, a threaded platform. Many women chose colors to advance their issues, traditional garb to shed light on their heritage, and/or pins and prints to bring awareness to topics we don't always talk about. They weren't reduced to clothes - they used them - and news coverage only amplifies their actions. We all need to get used to a conversation change as we head into this new Congress - one of the diverse ever. Because having MORE women involved CHANGES THINGS - for the better. Policy is less cut and dry, solutions to problems are thought about holistically, more compassion is offered, and a listening ear is always available. If we can cover what stars wear on the red carpet, we can certainly discuss what Senators wear in the Capitol. Yes, a change in happening across America, there is no reason that fashion can't lead the way.
Today, Time’s Up asked women to wear black in support of sexual survivors. In addition to asking women to wear black, the organization made up of volunteers, celebrities, and advocates, released a statement saying, “If confirmed to the U.S. Supreme Court, Judge Kavanaugh would have tremendous influence over the lives of working women for generations to come. A lifetime appointment to the highest court in the land should not be rushed through without thorough vetting of all critical issues.”
California’s Senator Kamala Harris, one of the most vocal Senators against Kavanaugh and rumored to soon be a presidential nominee, wore black to the Capitol, supporting the #MeToo movement. She shared her picture on #Instagram and #Twitter. Harris also tweeted in support of an investigation into the sexual abuse claims on September 23rd.
The color black remains an important color in the fashion and political industry. It can signify class, power, and indulgence. While some see wearing a certain color as a small gesture, it is always refreshing to see an elected official, celebrity, or influencer use their platform to support a cause - through fashion. |
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