The Washington Post on Gabriela Hearst: Her Clothes Prepare Women for a New Political Era

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."

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#MeghanMarkle’s colorful outfit is here to brighten your Monday morning. ❤️? Link in bio for details on her first event with #PrinceHarry of the new year.

A post shared by ELLE Magazine (@elleusa) on Jan 14, 2019 at 4:58am PST

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.

- Robin Givhan, The Washington Post

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!)

Headline picture from Interview Magazine's "A NO-NONSENSE CONVERSATION BETWEEN ALEXANDRIA OCASIO-CORTEZ AND KERRY WASHINGTON."

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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!