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As we witness the 2025 presidential inauguration, it’s impossible not to reflect on the powerful statements made through fashion during historic events like these. In past inaugurations and other high profile political events, we’ve witnessed influential Black women in politics using their attire to celebrate Black designers, making bold declarations about identity and representation.
As Black women, we know the power of showing up – and showing out. It’s in our DNA. It’s how we take up space, turn heads, and shift conversations.
Slaying for us is not just a trend; it often makes a statement.
All the times Black women political figures slayed in Black designers
So, when I see some of the most influential women in politics rocking Black designers, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of pride. One outfit at a time, our leaders are being unapologetically us, embracing culture on some of the world’s biggest stages.
The relationship between fashion and politics is nothing new. But lately, it hits different. Elected officials aren’t just wearing clothes; they’re sending messages. And when those messages are delivered in designs by Black creatives, the moment is everything.
Let’s dive into how some of our political powerhouses continue to put Black fashion on the map.
Michelle Obama: Our forever FLOTUS, the ‘Fashion Blueprint’
Michelle Obama is the ultimate style icon. One snap of her in a Sergio Hudson fit, and the internet goes wild. While she’s always had a strong fashion game, her post-White House era has been a full-on style revolution. During her Becoming book tour, she stepped into her power with bold braids, denim looks, and couture moments that screamed “Black girl magic.”
RELATED: 12 Times Michelle Obama Wore Braids Since Ending Her Tenure As The First Lady
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Even as First Lady, she gave us a taste of Black design brilliance. Remember those flirty, feminine dresses by Tracy Reese? Or the structured floral prints by Laura Smalls that balanced elegance with personality? What about her looks by Byron Lars and Duro Olowu?
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We loved these moments.
And Michelle’s love affair with Sergio Hudson continues. Sergio’s designs are made for her tall frame, glowing melanin skin, and curvy silhouette. No one does sophisticated FLOTUS style quite like Michelle O.
Kamala Harris: Making historic statements in style
Vice President Kamala Harris doesn’t shatter glass ceilings but does it all in style. When she stepped onto the inauguration stage in 2021, she wore a purple coat by Christopher John Rogers. As soon as she arrived, the internet went abuzz. Many saw the bright choice as the definition of a fashion statement.
Purple symbolized unity, bipartisanship, and her groundbreaking role as the first Black and South Asian woman VP. Christopher, a young, emerging Black designer, was the perfect choice to mark the moment.
VP Harris has also rocked pieces by LaQuan Smith. Heading to the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation dinner, the vice president showed she’s not afraid to embrace contemporary Black designers redefining luxury. Every outfit the “Chucks and Pearls” ambassador wears feels intentional.
Ayanna Pressley: The legislator redefining beauty, style, and power
Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley is a force. Whether commanding attention with bold red lipstick or turning heads in African prints, her style is as fearless as her politics. Even after losing her hair to alopecia, Pressley embraced her bald head with unmatched confidence, proving beauty isn’t tied to outdated standards or European tradition.
With the help of stylist Donyelle Shorter, she’s curated a wardrobe filled with vibrant colors and custom pieces by Black boutique owners while in office. Her looks aren’t just about fashion; they’re about celebrating culture and standing tall in her truth.
Karine Jean-Pierre: Diversity designed from behind the podium
As the first Black and openly LGBTQ person to serve as White House Press Secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre knows how to make a statement. Since taking her role in May 2022, she’s seen often behind a podium, but there were times when she stood out.
At the 2024 Kennedy Center Honors, she stunned in a black Stella Jean gown. The dress, hand-painted and embroidered with flowers, was a masterpiece. Stella Jean, a Haitian-Italian designer, infuses her pieces with multicultural vibrancy, making her the perfect choice for Karine. It was a moment that celebrated diversity, intricate couture, and the power of representation.
Source: Taylor Hill / Getty
Why we love seeing Black women politicians in Black designers for the culture
When these women step out in Black designers, the world pays attention. So, taking up the spotlight in these brands is not just a nod to the community, but it pushes the culture forward.
Wearing Black designers is a way to showcase talent often overlooked in mainstream spaces on other platforms. And we are here for it all.
Fashion will always be a place of expression, creativity, and individuality. And while we love to see it manifested through legacy fashion houses and luxury labels, it also makes us smile even more when we see styles that reflect who we are, what we look like, and where we’re from.
Let’s keep supporting Black designers and take fashion everywhere, from Capitol Hill to the runway and beyond.
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