The Force of Politics in Fashion
Fashion is meant to make a statement. This definitely rings true for this past fall’s looks on the runway and beyond.
Isn’t it a general rule that you shouldn’t meddle in politics to avoid alienating clients, peers, or the public? Although fashion never made this a rule, publicly endorsing candidates has become a trend only in recent years. This says a lot about the changing role of fashion in culture and politics.
During NYFW 2016, designers collaborated on a show to raise funding and awareness for presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. Designers including Marc Jacobs, Tory Burch, and Thakoon presented looks inspired by Clinton, the election, and America in general.
Tanya Taylor took a classic approach to the clothing she contributed to the HRC fashion show in the fall. She printed Clinton’s initials, HRC, on grey and white striped shirts for both men and women.Thakoon’s fall looks were both patriotic and supportive of the Democratic candidate. Detailing, such as the low-dropping v-neck, are reminiscent of the Hillary logo.
This isn’t the first time designers have rallied around presidential candidates. In the past two elections, designers supported President Obama with the “Runway to Change” and “Runway to Win” initiatives.
The three main shirts from this year’s show from Marc Jacobs, Tory Burch, and Public School (left to right) are on sale online for the public to buy. Anna Wintour wore a sequined version of the Marc Jacobs shirt to his Fall 2016 runway show.
“My support for Hillary is grounded on our long-standing shared belief in equality,” Jacobs told Vogue.com. “I am proud to share this T-shirt as a champion for equal rights, for the progress we have made, and for the hope of continued progress with Hillary as President.”
Designers have taken the same political initiative as celebrities by utilizing their public power towards achieving their political goals. Their political preferences are made clear through their designs, and the fact that they are willing to do that is one powerful way to speak towards the power of politics and this election specifically.
Fashion choices have been political choices for a very long time. The fashion choices of a person say a lot about their preferences and highlight their values. In the 2016 election, designers are joining the political conversation-- one t-shirt at a time-- to ultimately raise awareness for what they believe is right.