Saturday, April 26, 2008

My Two Cents

Harper's Bazaar isn't a magazine I ever really look at, but my grandma has a subscription, so she gave me few recent copies to read when I visited last weekend.

As I flipped through the most recent issue, a page filled with pictures of an abnormally svelte, strangely dressed Hillary Clinton caught my eye.



After the initial shock, I calmed down enough to realize that these pictures were the product of Photoshop. "Dressing Mrs. President," declared the header at the top of the page. "Top designers and Robin Givhan give America's would-be first woman president tips on how to get ready on day one."

Hmmm.

It's a fun thing to think about - what Hillary should wear if she becomes president - but I am constantly bothered by how much pressure is put on Hillary in regards to her appearance.

As for the article, well, I'd first like to say that the outfits picked are all wrong. Torn fishnets, sparkles, and leopard print berets? Really? Since when has that been appropriate business attire? And, judging by what Hillary has worn in the past, I am in no way convinced that any of these outfits are "her."

But that's pretty much besides the point.

The question that mostly overwhelmed my thoughts as I gazed at the row of designer-clad Hillary's was, "What do we really care about?" Do we want a president who will take the time to keep up with the trends and push the fashion envelope? Or do we want a president who will spend her time running the country?

I know what makes more sense to me.

There is no doubt that it is important for our future president - whoever that may be - to dress in a way that garners respect. The president, as someone who will represent our country, should definitely look clean, professional, and competent. But that, I think, is where the dress obligation ends. Fashion is something that everyone should be free to enjoy and experiment with, but it is a personal decision. The public scrutiny is getting a bit ridiculous.

What do you think?

12 comments:

Anonymous said...

It really is sort of pathetic. People have been waiting for centuries for a woman to run for president and now this is all they care about? And it's really not equal at all- no man's appearance has ever picked on like this.

Rebecca, A Clothes Horse said...

Those are ridiculous. I love the looks but not for someone of Hilary's age or position...

alm said...

I've always thought that a good (or better, no idea if she has one) stylist could help Hilary's image. At the same time, these looks are ridiculous for her AND fashion should never be the reason to choose a political candidate. As long as the candidate demonstrates reasonable responsibility by remaining kempt and decently clothed in public, their policies, not their taste in patterns, should be forefronted.

I loved this post and would be delighted if you'd consider submitting it to a festival I'm hosting this month, the Fabulous! Festival.

Shenanigans said...

I think this whole election hype is getting rediculous. From what Ive seen people care more about the apperance of the candidates more than what the canidates are going to do for the country. Its disgusting that I always have to hear about how other countries will laugh at us if a woman becomes president from people at school.

Applesaucery said...

I agree with you ENTIRELY.

Anonymous said...

Yes in this day and age, people are always watching, huh? I'm absolutely appalled by the 2nd picture of her to say the least. And yes we really should focus more on the issues that matter. Hmm pop-culturized political landscape? *fingers crossed* :)

Anonymous said...

Oh here's a website I've been checking out once in awhile, thought I'd share it with you.

http://www.style-arena.jp/index_e.htm

Pictures soon when my black romper's here! :)

Andrea said...

i totally agree with you! that's beyond silly....

btw, i tagged you on my blog :)

Kori said...

I'm glad to see people agreeing with me! Of course nobody needs to agree with me, but I was a wee bit nervous posting this up here, just because even semi-political stuff can get ugly.

anastasia- Oh, I had forgotten about the fabulous festival! I'd be happy to submit this:)

leila- I'll check that site out when I get a chance!

andrea- Thanks for the tag! I'll see what I can do...

Vic said...

Well considering she's not gonna BE president...OBAMA RUUUUUUUUUULES!

bloggirl said...

Hi, I'm a long-time reader of your blog, but kind of too shy to put in my two cents. However, this post was genius!

It's so true! Hilary would never wear something like that, and while I believe appearances for someone who is running for the presidency is important, they should consider who she is and her personality. The outfits are absolutely ridiculous and inappropriate in this situation. Sure, Hil could "fem" it up a bit, but she doesn't have to go to the extreme of leopard print or fishnets!

Kori said...

captain vee- Yep, Hilary's presidency is not looking too likely...

bloggirl- Thank you! And yes, I agree. Although you should check out the original article, since I did post some of the looks I liked the least for Hilary.