When Style Meets Politics: A look at the First Ladies of Style

by YC 


Nails - Artistic Nail Design Soak Off Colour Gloss in "Vogue." 



     There is so much excitement generated around the race to The White House that we can hardly keep up! Each side appealing its case on how they can make America better, have built an on-the-edge-of-your-seat momentum that we will have to wait until November 6th to see how it all plays out. 

     Although the main intentions of both the Republican and Democratic National Conventions were to shine light on why the parties’ candidate was the better person for the job, but for any Fashionista, our attention somewhat drifted from promises to “who are you wearing?”

     Typically what you will find is the political party runs parallel with the style.  At least for the women.  Republicans are deemed as the conservative group, and so is their approach to style.  Think the late Nancy Reagan, Barbara Bush or Laura Bush.  These former First Ladies keep their wardrobe choices refined.  It was going to be neat, clean lines, and less likely to offend.  Their style wouldn’t necessary land them on the “Best Dressed” list, but would be admired by those conservative-like dressers.

     During the RNC, we saw a beautiful Ann Romney approach the podium to make an appeal for her husband Mitt Romney, wearing a simple, yet chic red dress.  The designer Oscar de la Renta was responsible for the jeweled encrusted belted knee-length sheath, and Romney stunned in it.  She worked in minimal accessories by pairing a gold watch and bracelet, with well-manicured red nails.  It was not flashy, and it stuck to the style script. 
Then there are the Democrats.  Considered to be liberal, which also reflects in their style choice, trendsetters have been birthed from this political group.  For instance, Jacqueline Kennedy [Onassis].  It was her courageous style that dared her to walk out in the 1960’s as then First Lady, wearing a mini-skirt, popularizing it in an instant.   It was her style that even in the 21st century is highly referred to as an inspiration behind design.

     Our current First Lady, Michelle Obama is no stranger to fashion.  There have been numerous articles on her personal style, identifying her as a fashion icon.  All eyes were on the first lady’s ensemble on Tuesday night at the DNC.  As she graced the stage, the Twitterverse lit up with its Joan Rivers-like critique, professing in 140 characters how amazing she looked.  Obama wore a brocade pink and gold sleeveless dress that faired out into a light blue hemline.  After much speculation around who was responsible for the look, American designer Tracy Reese confirmed on Twitter by saying, “Thanks everyone for this amazing moment! We are all so grateful and honored to have dressed Mrs. Obama for such a momentous speech!”

     Like Romney, Obama opted for minimal jewelry, only wearing a simple pair of earrings, yet it was her nail color – a blue-gray hue – that doubled as the perfect accessory. 
  
     Let’s clear up any misconception; style is an individual thing.  It has nothing to do with your party affiliation.  It solely comes from within.  However, some will stick to the style script, and others will deviate a bit.  But what is true about both ladies – Obama and Romney – they were both on trend.  They approach the world with class, and their wardrobe reflects just that.  Red is going to be a popular color for Fall 2012, and so will the material, brocade.  Both ladies get it, well at least their wardrobe stylists do, and the fact the they have to be in the forefront supporting their husbands, it is safe to assume that fashion plays a viable part in their lives.

     Although policy is at the top of any politician’s agenda, when style meets politics, you are in for an on trend, well-polished, trendsetting muse that dictates not only the way our country flows, but our closet selections.  

(AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) Romney wearing Oscar de la Renta

(Photo Source: Reuter)FLOTUS Michelle Obama wearing Tracy Reese dress, Pumps "rhubarb" by J. Crew

YC Broadie is a Fashion and Beauty Publicist and Blogger who owns and operate The YCB Agency – a luxury lifestyle agency specializing in Fashion and Beauty PR, Image Consulting, and Event Planning


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