The Democratic National Convention (DNC), Kamala Harris’s choice of attire has sparked widespread discussion, reminiscent of the conversations triggered by former President Barack Obama’s tan suit in August 2014.
On August 20, 2024, CNN reported that Harris’s outfit—a custom two-piece wool suit designed by the French fashion house Chloé—has become a topic of debate among online commentators. Some have noted that Harris’s suit appeared darker than Obama’s iconic tan suit, suggesting it was closer to camel than tan. Chloé, however, describes the suit’s color simply as “brown.”
This debate over the suit’s color goes beyond mere fashion trivia. It highlights how wardrobe choices for political figures can carry significant symbolism and messaging. As the first female vice president and the first woman of color to hold the position, Harris’s fashion statements are scrutinized for their deeper implications.
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The wool suit, designed by Chloé’s creative director Chemena Kamali, underscores a growing relationship between Harris and the French luxury label. This is not the first instance of Kamali dressing Harris; in May, Kamali designed a custom gown and matching jacket cape for Harris for a White House state dinner.
Harris’s choice to wear Chloé at a prominent event like the DNC reflects a developing partnership that benefits both the vice president and the fashion house. Under Kamali’s leadership since October, Chloé has experienced a cultural renaissance, blending modern elegance with power. Kamali’s designs, which merge sophistication with a sense of authority, align well with Harris’s role as a powerful leader.
Harris’s wardrobe choices are frequently noted not just for their style, but for their significance. In politics, where image and symbolism are crucial, Harris’s fashion serves as a form of communication. Her choice of a Chloé suit, with its strong lines and bold silhouette, mirrors her approach to leadership—assertive, decisive, and distinctly feminine.
This emerging partnership between Harris and Chloé also reflects a broader trend in fashion, where there is a growing demand for clothing that balances sophistication with authority while embracing femininity. As more women ascend to positions of power, they seek attire that represents both their strength and their individuality.
For Kamali and Chloé, aligning with Harris offers a significant boost. Dressing a high-profile figure like the vice president elevates the brand’s profile, especially in the U.S., where political fashion often captures public interest. The association with Harris also aligns Chloé with values of progress, diversity, and strength.
While the debate over the color of Harris’s DNC outfit might seem minor, it underscores the larger role fashion plays in political discourse. Every detail of what a leader wears can carry profound meaning, and as Kamala Harris continues to break new ground, her fashion choices will remain a focal point of public conversation.
