A Woman’s Right to a Hat: How Fashion Shapes Politics
The Importance of Fashion in Politics
Fashion has long been a subtle yet powerful force in politics, shaping how leaders are perceived. Fashion’s influence on politics is especially evident in how women in power use their wardrobe choices. For First Ladies, in particular, every outfit tells a story, whether intentional or not. Even when they are not saying anything, we like to speculate about what women in power are thinking. Is that the beauty of women’s fashion? The ability to express oneself through fabrics and accessories? Perhaps after centuries of oppression and muted voices, women’s empowerment through fashion became a way of speaking their truth.
Melania Trump: Fashion as a Political Statement
Melania Trump’s style choices often dominate discussions, showcasing her ability to spark controversy through wardrobe alone. All Americans really know about her is that she comes from a European country they can’t remember the name of, she was a model and married rich. All of which makes her the perfect fit for an old stereotype of a woman with a “weird” accent, a pretty face, and radar for rich old husbands. Is she speaking to us through her fashion choices, or are all of the controversial hats and coats just a mere coincidence?
Her look at Donald Trump’s 2025 inauguration set the internet ablaze. The striking blue hat she wore drew comparisons to old-Hollywood glamour, yet critics debated whether its dramatic silhouette overshadowed the event itself. Was it a deliberate nod to her individuality, or an attempt to distance herself from the political chaos around her? Or was it as simple as a zit on her forehead and Dior concealer just wouldn’t do?
Melania’s style often mixes modern elegance with quiet rebellion. From her sharply tailored coats to controversial choices like the "I really don’t care, do u?" jacket, her wardrobe reflects a layered persona that’s as fascinating as it is polarizing. Fashion as a form of political communication is clearly something Melania understands, whether intentional or not.
Brigitte Macron: French Elegance in Politics
In contrast, Brigitte Macron’s fashion communicates effortlessness and accessibility. She’s regularly seen in Louis Vuitton designs, blending contemporary sophistication with the timeless appeal of French style. Macron’s wardrobe aligns with France’s progressive yet deeply rooted identity, showcasing both national pride and forward-thinking elegance. She seems to have very little to say and leaves all the big political statements to her husband. She did the teaching; he does the doing. (Pun intended)
Meghan Markle: Modern Royal Fashion and Impact
Meghan Markle, as the Duchess of Sussex, has revolutionized royal fashion—or has tried to. Although not a First Lady, her impact on political and social norms through fashion was undeniable. Her choices were sleek, understated, and often tied to meaningful causes. From supporting sustainable brands to wearing outfits that champion female designers, Meghan’s wardrobe reflected her values of equality, diversity, and independence. Unlike traditional royal styles, she often opted for modern cuts and neutral tones, sending a message of authenticity and approachability.
Meghan Markle’s fashion choices highlighted the power of using style to amplify one’s message. The message that the majority of the Kingdom’s public and members of the Firm did not appreciate. It seems she got the invitation to the party but missed the dress code rules. It was not too long before she was escorted out.
Let Them Wear Hats
Isn’t it ironic? Women in power use fashion as a tool to navigate their roles, express beliefs, and communicate without words—and yet, we judge them as if they’re competing on a runway. Instead of applauding their ability to masterfully balance perception and purpose in fashion , we reduce them to “coats” and “hats,” dismissing the weight of their roles.
Isn’t it time we stop treating women like decorative accessories and start recognizing the substance behind their choices? Maybe it’s time we let women wear—and say—what they want without questioning if there’s anything beneath the brim of that hat.
At its core, fashion reflects a wearer’s place in the world. The designers we support, the fabrics we choose, and the care we put into our wardrobes are not just aesthetic decisions—they're declarations of who we are and the future we believe in.
Ready to make your own statement? Dive into our collection of sustainable, 100% organic designs, crafted with care in Croatia, and wear your values with pride.
The Author: Dora Solenicki
Dora, CEO of Dive Organic, proud NTU alumna, literature lover, art admirer, fashion crafter, marketing professional, and cat mother, thanks you for reading.
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