Blog #23: Gender Expectations & Stereotypes

Fashion on the political front is a very interesting topic.  For years and years, women lawyers and women in politics have been wearing very traditional, non-revealing, professional, and, well, bland clothing.  It's important that these women be viewed in the most professional and responsible way possible.  However, if anyone steps out of the box, even a little, they are viewed completely based on the clothing that they wear.  In the public eye, it is simple things like clothing that can completely make or break your reputation, and that is why professional appearance is so important for women in this field.  For years, women have been criticized on the clothing that they wear, much more than men, and just recently with the ladies of the most recent election has the envelope been pushed much farther than before.  

Michelle Obama has been known for her courageous, but professional attire.  There is nothing wrong with bringing color and excitement to your clothes if you still look professional and responsible, which she does.  She has brought a variety of different clothing, and made it acceptable for women all over the world to show a little bit more of their own personal style, while still looking classy.   She has been criticized for the amount of money that she spends on clothing, as well as Mrs. McCain for her expensive designer jewels.  However, no one else that makes a good living is criticized for spending money on the clothing that they wear.  

I think that people are not used to the changes that are happening in the professional world of style because it is so different than anything that has happened in the past.  I think that it is unfortunate that  so many people are being criticized for not following the norm of dark, bland clothing that show no personality.  There is nothing wrong with expanding the political fashion sense as long as it stays professional, appropriate, and classy.