This week, the Democratic National Convention is underway at the United Center in Chicago. Running until Thursday, the convention will gather thousands of delegates and alternates to approve a party platform for the 2024 presidential election; Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota governor Tim Walz are also set to formally accept the party’s nominations. Over the course of four days, the DNC will feature several speakers, and Monday’s kick-off event included words from President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden.
While the four-day convention will emphasize drumming up voter enthusiasm for Harris and Walz—and address key issues the Democratic Party plans to focus on throughout the campaign trail—the DNC will also be chock-full of strategic fashion choices. Politicians have long used personal style to relay campaign and policy messaging. The DNC is only further proving the thoughtful, strategic approach to dressing.
On day one, Dr. Jill Biden chose a lilac, double-breasted blazer by Ralph Lauren, paired with white trousers. The First Lady has often shown her support for American designers, notably wearing Ralph Lauren at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics opening last month. Spotlighting American talent through her wardrobe is a common display of patriotism from the first lady, who has also worn designs by Sergio Hudson, Christian Siriano, Markarian, and more during her tenure.
Vice President Kamala Harris took to the stage tonight in a sleek, tan two-piece suit by Chloé. Back in 2014, then-President Barack Obama faced controversy for wearing a suit in a similar color, with many questioning whether the shade was “appropriate” for office. Harris’s decision to wear tan perhaps counters that sentiment, and is a fitting choice for a candidate running on a platform modern, of progressive ideals.
Lieutenant Governor of Minnesota Peggy Flanagan spoke while wearing a printed blazer and dress by Jamie Okuma, a leading contemporary Indigenous designer and artist. By showing her support for Okuma, Flanagan—who is Ojibwe—was also acknowledging Native citizens, who often are key swing state voters during election years.
Below, Vogue explores more of the can’t-miss fashion moments from the Democratic National Convention, and the thoughtful choices behind them.
