Is fashion political?
- Anassilvia Valle
- Feb 27
- 2 min read
“Your clothes are the most political choice that you make everyday” is a famous quote said by Sage Paul, an award-winning fashion designer and the Artistic Director of Indigenous Fashion Arts.
This quote raises the question if fashion and politics are linked, and if fashion is not just about style, but a reflection of values. The truth is that fashion and politics are deeply intertwined. Fashion has always been much more than clothes and trends; it serves as a form of powerful political statement. It's a form of self expression that mirrors and comments on societals issues, thus, whatever is trending on fashion mirrors the political landscape.
Throughout history, fashion has been used as a form of protest, acting as an indirect messaging tool when an individual doesn't have a voice within politics or is being spoken over by others. It is always deeply connected to a society's political roots. If people wear short or long skirts or the way their braid or tie their hair is linked to their history, because fashion is also a tool for personal identity.
This connection between fashion and politics becomes clearer when looking at real-world fashion movements.
The gothic subculture first emerged in the United Kingdom in the late 70's. The movement was born amidst economic crises, unemployment, and conservative politics, when a great deal of social dissatisfaction surged, and was reflected in the music and aesthetics of the subculture. The movement is characterized by dark moody colors, heavy makeup, peculiar haircuts, and its intention was to create a scandal in society. This rebellion was a strong political activism against conservative ideals.
Furthermore, fashion continues to reflect political meaning. As Trump returned to the White House in January 2025, he promoted the idea of a strong nation and a rigid regime, that will fight for territory and military dominance, constructing the image of a powerful and safe country. When the president's wife Melania Trump made her first appearance as the 44th official first lady, her outfit reflected that idea: she wore a very structured, minimalist embellishment in all black. The overall outfit is traditional and the dark clothes enhance the severe and controlled aesthetic.
These two fashion events are one of the many historical fashion movements, which proves that fashion goes way beyond the way we buy, wear, or post for the aesthetic. Fashion is a means of constantly asserting our political, social, and cultural views. Every piece of cloth carries history, values, and context. For that means, fashion and politics are intertwined, whether people like it or not.
Comments