Kamala's Style Evolution

When Vice President Kamala Harris first stepped on stage in 2020, the fashion world asked: “What kind of style would the first woman in office bring to the table.” All-black pant suits and classic pearls were her signature look.

With her recent presidential nomination secured, there has been a shift in her personal style. Having a woman run for the highest level of office is exciting and image matters. Selecting the right looks for a candidate can make or break how the public subconsciously feels about her.

Presidential Image

Creating a presidential image is not about wearing the latest trends or statement outfit. Selecting outfits that do not distract from a person’s face, but rather compliment it, and bring power and balance to their look is the goal.

In the past, while dressing a male presidential candidate, the biggest fashion decision has always been: red tie or blue tie, back to a black suit or blue suit.

For women in power positions there are so many styling options. Selecting the correct look can be challenging. How do you stand out, look powerful, look feminine and not distracting are challenges that women are often faced with.

Pant Suits, Skirt, or Dresses?

Kamala has opted for pant suits over dresses and skirts. Pant suits are always the most formal option for a woman, and a great choice for Kamala. Pants balance her hourglass figure and allow her to discretely wear heels, which adds height (a power move!)

Selecting a Color Palette

Black, ivory, blush and baby blue seem to be Kamala’s signature colors. They are excellent choices for a more conservative look that does not distract or compete with the overall look. I think her styling team is gradually introducing select looks that the public can get familiar with. Kamala’s styling team should consider mixing and matching ivory pants back to a black jacket to create a sleek and modern look. Bold color mix styling is something I would like to see more of.

The Perfect Shell

The shell is the top that goes under the jacket. Its the equivalent of the tie that men wear, and it matters. If its too low or too sheer it can seem inappropriate. If its too bright or is printed, it can seem busy and distracting. Kamala has opted for the asymmetrical, cowl neckline, as well as higher neckline shells in ivory and black, styled back to her signature pearls.

Influence on Fashion

Kamala is paving the way for what style can look like at the highest level of office. I think we will see a major shift in power dressing for women this fall. Designers like Giorgio Armani, Alexander McQueen, Carolina Herrera, Ralph Lauren, Max Mara, and Akris all have tailored classic suiting at the core of their collections, and will be the brands to follow for power dressing this Fall.