Fashion has an import place in politics, especially when it comes to female political figures.
Does this dress exude confidence? Does that red color make her look aggressive?
Good clothing choices help sell an image. And in return, political figures can also influence the way we dress and help domestic brand and designers grow.
Let's have a quick review of this year's strongest fashion influencers in the political world.
Theresa May
Since the UK's new Prime Minister Theresa May took the position in July, much attention has been paid to her style, from her famous leopard print shoes to the infamous brown leather trousers she wore recently. May is not afraid to wear leather at 60. Despite the debate, she sparked a surge in sales of the pants, according to The Telegraph. There was also an increase in searches such as 'Theresa May shoes' after her inauguration, according to Google Trends.
▲The shoes of Prime Minister Theresa May are seen as she speaks at the CBI conference in London on Nov 21, 2016.
Hillary Clinton
Hillary Clinton's signature pantsuits have deeply influenced Americans, including celebrities such as Lady Gaga. Even after she lost the election, she did not lose her fashion influence. After she was spotted hiking in an old Patagonia fleece recently, the brand's sell saw a significant increase, according to The Telegraph.
▲ This photo was taken by the supporters of Hillary Clinton when they accidentally encountered her and her husband hiking in Chappaqua the next day after she suffered the defeat in the presidential election.
Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama has been a strong player in promoting American high street brands and young designers. The gown she wore at the inauguration eight years ago helped the designer Jason Wu, then 26, start a fashion empire. American brands Naeem Khan, Christian Siriano and J.Crew have all benefited from the effect of the FLOTUS.
The Duchess of Cambridge
Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, has a similar impact to Michelle Obama, and her go-to country labels include Alexander McQueen, Monica Vinader, L.K. Bennett and Temperley London.
Melania Trump
Since her husband won the election last month, Melania Trump has got the country's designers divided in whether they should be delighted to dress the next FLOTUS. After all, some of them had officially endorsed Hillary Clinton. Nevertheless, some argued that people shouldn't become too political about fashion. So we will wait and see Melania Trump's real-life impact on the world's fashion.
