Fashion Week comes to Capitol Hill?

November 10th, 2006

Is this for real? The Washington Post devoting 1,000 words to Nancy Pelosi’s wardrobe? Sure, it’s in the Fashion section, but come on. Is anyone scrutinizing Robert Gates’ couture? Did anyone give a whit about what Dennis Hastert wore when he became Speaker?

See for yourself:

Pelosi’s suit was by Giorgio Armani — the Italian master of neutral tones and modern power dressing — and she wore it well. She looked polished and tasteful in front of the cameras. It is tempting to even go so far as to say that she looked chic, which in the world beyond Washington would be considered a compliment, but in the context of politics is an observation fraught with insinuations of partisanship and condescension.

And:

Armani stands as a kind of professional armor. It is protective but soft. Tailored but with a drape. It is the style of business dress that in the 1980s famously feminized menswear and brought masculine confidence to women’s wear. An Armani suit, for a woman, is a tool for playing with the boys without pretending to be one.

And finally:

Pelosi had to decide how a woman who will be second in line of succession to the presidency should look. And what she came up with is someone who wears a neutral-colored, softly tailored power suit. One that is accessorized with style rather than rote references to love of country. She looks dignified and serious. And in this case, she also happens to look quite good.

Thanks to Naomi, my sister, for taking time out of her busy day off in DC to call me with this, uh, news.

Entry Filed under: Glass ceiling