Politics and fashion

Now, I’m not really into politics, but having our first female Prime Minister recently is a pretty massive change. And sure, sure… we have an election pending so might have that old swimmer guy (Tony Abbott) in power soon, but for now I feel super proud of women kind. The fact that we can perfectly coordinate an outfit, bear children and run a country is definitely a score for us. Big ups the ladies! Way to represent Julia! “Girl power” is more than a nineties band slogan.

But of course women have been involved in politics since the beginning of time. As they say, behind every great man, is a great woman. Sometimes she is not behind so much as… anyway. You get my drift. Monica Lewinsky, Marylin Monroe, Grace Kelly, Jackie Onassis and the lovely Michelle Obama; all these women played a part in politics that have made them ever-etched into our minds. For various things of course, their notoriety, their infamous acts, their innate elegance and of course – their style. Fashion and politics are good bedmates.

There is something about a women in power (or adjacent to it) that makes their clothes automatically assessed by the public. A women in politics is applauded or ridiculed for her style, there seems to be no middle ground of indifference. I think the key to being a stylish political figure is all the details. Jackie O (not the one who works with Kyle every morning) gave us the glamorous 50s style, Michelle Obama has very cleverly dressed in high end labels and more accessible labels like J Crew. The way a women with political power chooses to dress has a massive impact on whether she is loved her hated. While politics aren’t really my thing, I sure do love a great statement outfit.

Here are my five must haves for rocking the political power look…

The statement jacket

Of course power shoulders are totally hot right now, but to be a truly powerful jacket you need to have the strut/attitude to match. I love the detailing of this maroon jacket.

Huge sunglasses

I have always loved the Jackie O look. All prim and proper, reserved and graceful… maybe it’s because I am a bit of a clutz so would love to be as elegant as she is. But I can rock the big shades! Even though Ray Bans are still the official ‘it’ glasses, these are eternally stylish.

Everything Carla Bruni

Carla Bruni has it all! She can sing, model, is super stylish and has the President of France as a husband. This Italian icon also has a hint of controversy about her and has been unkindly compared to Marie Antoinette. But the woman can dress! She exudes style and I would give away my mother for her wardrobe. I love the bow detail on her dress. Very Parisian!

Power colour

As you can see by the main picture for this story, purple is the colour for political power. For generations women have worn purple to signify their class and regal nature. So next time you are heading to a job interview or meeting, choose a colour that empowers you. I love this maroon jumper from Birds of A Feather, on sale at www.incityfashion.com.au

The Obamas

I am in love with the Obamas. They just look so happy, in love and above all, stylish. Michelle has some seriously good taste and has maintained a lovely figure to match. They are the fashion antidote to frumpy, boring, pollies.

Labels on my radar: Cue, Birds of a Feather, Seduce, Prada, Burberry, Chanel, Witchery, Country Road, Marni, Nina Ricci, Thakoon, Veronika Maine, Ojay, Jac + Jack, Little Joe.