Elizabeth Segran on Fashion, Leadership, and the Future of Power Dressing
By Jennifer Heinen | Fashion Psychologist
From the drama surrounding Barack Obama's Tan Suit to Hillary Clinton's bold statement with her Rainbow Wardrobe.
In the dynamic intersection of fashion and politics, few discussions are as timely and impactful as the exploration of how political figures use their sartorial choices to shape perceptions of power. Fashion is more than just a statement; it’s a tool of influence, especially in the political arena.
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In this episode of the Style My Mind podcast, Elizabeth Segran, PhD, Senior Staff Writer at Fast Company and author of "The Rocket Years: How Your Twenties Launch The Rest of Your Life," delves into the significance of power dressing in politics, with a particular focus on Kamala Harris and Hillary Clinton. Elizabeth’s insightful analysis of Kamala Harris’s sartorial choices reveals how fashion can redefine power, challenge traditional norms, and inspire future generations.
The Cultural and Economic Impact of Fashion
Elizabeth Segran's journey into fashion journalism is as unique as it is insightful. Initially setting out to become a professor of ancient Indian literature, her global upbringing in Paris, Jakarta, and India exposed her to the diverse cultural dimensions of fashion. This perspective enriched her understanding of fashion as a reflection of societal values and economic structures.
"A garment is never really just a garment," Elizabeth emphasises. "It says so much about culture and the economy."
The fashion supply chain, predominantly staffed by a poorly paid female workforce, starkly mirrors global economic disparities. Over 80% of workers in this industry are women, often subjected to low wages and harsh conditions. Elizabeth’s insights remind us that fashion is not just about aesthetics but about the stories and struggles behind the seams.
The Power of the Pantsuit in Politics
Historically, the suit has been a symbol of male power and respectability. Originating from military garments, the suit evolved as a status symbol for the emerging middle class. Over time, it became a global emblem of professionalism and authority.
In the 1980s, women began adopting the power suit in professional settings, signalling their readiness to compete in male-dominated arenas. However, in politics, the journey was more fraught. Women faced unspoken rules discouraging them from wearing suits, which were perceived as a threat to male counterparts.
Kamala Harris's strategic use of the suit illustrates a nuanced understanding of power dressing. Elizabeth draws parallels to Hillary Clinton, who used her wardrobe to project authority while subtly shifting perceptions of female leadership. Harris's choice to wear suits—often with brighter colours or feminine blouses—balances professionalism with personal identity, challenging traditional gender norms in politics.
"Kamala Harris can use her clothing to assert her identity and pave the way for other minorities to ascend to positions of power," Elizabeth notes.
Emerging Trends and Future Possibilities
As more women enter political leadership, the landscape of power dressing continues to evolve. Elizabeth highlights emerging trends such as the use of colour and jewellery to project power while maintaining femininity. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, for example, is known for her bold pink suits, which break conventional norms while asserting her authority.
Interestingly, the casualisation of male political dress contrasts sharply with the formal attire often expected of women.
Politicians like John Fetterman, known for wearing hoodies to Congress, exemplify this shift.
This disparity underscores the privilege white men have in adopting more casual looks, while women and men of color often adhere to stricter dress codes to project professionalism.
Reflecting on these trends, Elizabeth envisions a future where power dressing transcends traditional gender and cultural boundaries. She hopes that leaders like Kamala Harris will further normalise diversity in positions of power, perhaps even incorporating elements of their cultural heritage into their wardrobes.
"Imagine if Kamala Harris wore a sari or textiles from the Caribbean," Elizabeth muses. "It would redefine what power can look like."
Key Takeaways and Practical Advice
For those navigating traditional dress codes while staying true to their identity, Elizabeth offers practical advice. She emphasises the importance of a well-fitted suit, which still carries significant professional symbolism. However, she encourages adding personal touches through color, accessories, and unique fabrics.
"The ultimate power is being able to just show up entirely as you are,"
She also advises young professionals to balance formal and casual elements in their wardrobe, adapting to different settings while maintaining a sense of self. This approach can help mitigate the pressure of conforming to rigid dress codes without compromising personal identity.
So what can we take away from this conversation?
The discussion with Elizabeth Segran sheds light on the profound impact of fashion in shaping perceptions of leadership and power. Kamala Harris's sartorial choices, reflecting both professionalism and personal identity, offer a blueprint for redefining power dressing in the 21st century. As we move forward, the hope is to see a more inclusive representation of leadership that embraces diversity and authenticity.
Now its your time: Reflect on your wardrobe and consider how your clothing choices can empower you and reflect your true identity. Share your journey with the hashtag #StyleMyMindChallenge and join the conversation on redefining power through fashion.
Want to know more about Elizabeth?
Connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethsegran/
Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizsegran/
To learn more about her work and insights:
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