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Making a statement -

Fashion extends far beyond the realm of high-fashion runways and social media influencers. It's a powerful force with the ability to convey messages, shape history, and represent entire social movements. Consider the impact of punk, the Black Power movement, and the hippies—fashion played a crucial role in each.

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Reflecting a stance -

As Andrew Bolton, Curator in Charge of The Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, observes: "Fashion functions as a mirror to our times, so it is inherently political." 

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Sending a message -

Historians and academics agree that fashion has never been politically neutral. It has always served as a means of attracting attention, whether through aesthetics or political statements. 

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Dressing the part -

Politics is no exception to this rule. Just as campaigns are carefully strategized to reach specific voters, and speeches are meticulously crafted and rehearsed, so are the outfits politicians wear.

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Trademark -

Politicians, with their distinct ideologies and weighty responsibilities, carefully cultivate a public image, and their clothing choices play a crucial role. From global leaders to local representatives, signature styles emerge, each aiming to connect with a specific segment of the population.

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Casual -

This isn't just about fashion; it's about communicating a message. For instance, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is often seen in more casual attire, aligning with his appeal to a younger, liberal demographic.

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Humble -

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy often wears t-shirts, hoodies, combat boots, and somber tones like black and military green, a sharp contrast to the tailored suits common among politicians. His casual attire creates a relatable, grounded image, especially during the ongoing crisis.

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Modern -

Former US VP Kamala Harris often paired Converse shoes with her pantsuits, using the style to connect with Democrat voters and convey a message of simplicity.

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The Trump effect -

Which brings us to President Trump and his second-term entourage. Fashion experts and journalists have been analyzing their style choices since his inauguration.

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New-traditional style -

Experts suggest that, just weeks into Trump’s second term, power dressing has taken on a new look. The Obamas' metropolitan style, and the refined taste of the Bidens, have given way to a more flashy, bold aesthetic.

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Conservative, yet flashy -

"Less is more" no longer applies in this new era, as seen in bedazzled cowboy hats, bright red "MAGA" caps, YMCA symbols, and raised fists. 

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Loud and proud -

These items reflect a culture eager to amplify its expression, moving away from traditional norms of power, prestige, and decorum.

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Clearly popular -

The Guardian columnist Jess Cartner-Morley acknowledges that while it's easy to criticize the Trump look, its undeniable appeal resonates with 77,284,118 voters who clearly appreciate it.

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Different tone -

Cartner-Morley compares Trump’s first and second terms, noting that while his first inauguration was marked by a grim speech, in 2025 Trump arrived in Washington with a more upbeat tone. There were more smiles, more celebrities, and simple but effective messaging.

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Exclusive club -

Trump reportedly threw big parties with hamburgers and fireworks, signaling that having money and winning is fun.

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Translating into style -

The first rule of storytelling is to show, not tell—a principle reflected in the fashion choices of Trump and his inner circle. 

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Men's section -

Their style signals a conservative view of gender and fashion norms, with men wearing oversized, boxy suits and no stylish details like silk pocket squares, tailored waists, or trendy short trouser hems.

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Extreme makeover -

Coincidentally (or not), members of what the media calls "The Broligarchy" formed around Trump—Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg—have notably changed their images.

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Top Gun -

Now showcasing more muscular physiques and wearing "macho" outfits, like aviator sunglasses and jackets that suggest a just-landed-from-a-helicopter look.

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Boys to men? -

In a recent interview on the Joe Rogan (another member of Trump's alleged "Broligarchy") podcast, Zuckerberg said Meta needed more "masculine energy" within its teams,  marking a sharp departure from his previous focus on promoting inclusivity and diversity at the company.

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Women's section -

As for women, Fox News contributor Kellyanne Conway and conservative podcaster Megyn Kelly embody a vision of femininity reminiscent of the California blondes in '90s Hollywood fiction.

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Signature hair style -

Reports indicate a growing demand for the "Republican blowout"—polished, blonde styles now linked to Republican women, replacing the sleek bobs popular during the Democratic era. It’s no surprise that Tiffany Trump, Lara Trump, and Carrie Underwood wore similar hairstyles at Donald Trump's inauguration.

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Day and night -

Journalists have noted two dominant looks among women in Trump’s camp: demure, waist-focused tailoring for the day and bare-shouldered ballgowns for the evening. 

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Showing off -

After the inauguration, Usha Vance followed the First Lady's lead, swapping a modest, coquette-pink coat for a strapless dress.

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Money rules -

Despite the strong gender norms associated with Trump’s second term, money remains a dominant force, with some media noting it as a defining feature of this mandate—encouraging open displays of wealth.

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Not so demure -

Fashion critics pointed out how Lauren Sánchez defied traditional femininity at the inauguration, wearing a lace bra under her low-cut Alexander McQueen jacket. The message seemed clear: when your fiancé is Bezos, you set your own rules.

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Trumping fashion norms -

While in 2017, designers like Marc Jacobs refused to dress her, the First Lady now appears to have regained favor, with more designers showing a willingness to work with the Trump administration. For Trump’s second-term inauguration, Melania wore a bold, imposing hat by Eric Javits, a statement piece at a time when it’s no longer traditional for First Ladies to wear hats at such events.

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"Hat Gate" -

Some journalists have connected Trump’s claim of being anointed a "king" after divine intervention saved him from an assassination attempt with Melania and Ivanka’s royal-inspired fashion choices, including hats and conservative looks reminiscent of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. 

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Royal family -

Could these style choices signal an effort to project a royal image?

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In or out? -

It remains to be seen whether the "Trump effect" will take hold and whether we are witnessing the rise of an unofficial modern American royalty, but some trends appear to be quickly gaining traction.

Sources: (The Guardian) (Vogue) (The Geostrata) (Harpers Bazar) (Business Insider) (Radio Canada International)

See also: How the Trump family spends their billions

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