Kamala Harris’s Campaign Fashion Earns Top Marks from Fashion Design Students at Montclair State

In a fascinating analysis of political fashion, Montclair State University’s Fashion Design and Merchandising students have declared Vice President Kamala Harris the clear style victor over former President Donald Trump in the context of the 2024 presidential race. Under the expert guidance of Professor Abby Lillethun, students leveraged their knowledge from advanced fashion courses to evaluate how both candidates use clothing as a powerful communication tool on the campaign trail.

Harris’s Versatile Style Philosophy

The Vice President’s diverse wardrobe choices have particularly impressed the young fashion scholars. “Kamala Harris is proving that professional attire doesn’t have to be limited to black pantsuits or traditional color schemes,” observed student Arriana Johnson. Harris’s ability to seamlessly transition between classic form-fitting suits, casual Converse Chuck Taylors, and her signature pearls has created a multi-dimensional image that resonates with voters across demographics.

The Power of Fashion Flexibility

Julie Halma highlighted the striking contrast between the candidates’ approaches: “Trump maintains a consistent suit-and-tie combination, while Kamala embraces variety through color and style, creating a more approachable presence.” This versatility extends to Harris’s formal wear choices, where she skillfully balances elegance with authority, often choosing solid sequined gowns for state dinners while avoiding overtly feminine details.

The Politics Behind the Pantsuit

Students delved deep into the significance of Harris’s preference for shoulder-padded pantsuits. Zuriel Vargas noted how this choice “creates a powerful frame that places her on equal footing” in political spaces. The discussion revealed how Harris’s wardrobe choices reflect broader challenges faced by women in politics, with student Haniyah Khurman pointing out that Harris strategically uses clothing to keep attention focused on her message rather than her appearance.

Trump’s Signature Style Strategy

Professor Lillethun provided valuable historical context, explaining how men’s fashion in Western culture has historically been more restricted. The class analyzed Trump’s consistent use of blue suits and long red ties as a deliberate branding strategy. Nelson Dela Cruz observed that Trump’s signature long tie might serve to create a more slender silhouette, while other students noted how his open jacket style projects an intentionally casual image.

The Generational Fashion Appeal

Professor Lillethun summarized the broader implications of these fashion choices: “Harris’s ability to adapt her style while maintaining professionalism reflects the dynamic nature of American life. Her wardrobe choices, from formal suits to casual wear, demonstrate an understanding of how modern leaders can connect with diverse audiences while maintaining authority.”

The students concluded that Harris’s varied wardrobe creates a more authentic connection with voters, particularly younger generations, by reflecting the reality of modern American life where roles and responsibilities are constantly evolving. Her ability to maintain professional credibility while showing style versatility has emerged as a powerful asset in contemporary political communication.