HOODIES, TATTOOS, AND DREADLOCKS: OH MY!
Do clothes make the person, or does the person make the clothes? I engaged in a debate recently about Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman, who gained notoriety because of his ‘everyman’ wardrobe: a hooded sweatshirt and cargo shorts. A large man in stature, he ran for office–and was elected to a high position in his state government–while dressed like an average, working-class Pennsylvanian.
You might be thinking, "Wait, isn't politics all about boring suits and ties?" The answer, increasingly, is “Not anymore!” Those who view political and professional attire as sexist, racist, or classist wish to expand the definition of what clothing and grooming standards are deemed acceptable in a professional setting. The CROWN Act protects the rights of black men and women at work and in school. This act, now passed in 18 states, bans discrimination due to natural hair texture or traditional black hairstyles, such as dreadlocks or twists.
Senator Kyrsten Sinema’s clothing has often been a topic of political conversations. Her yellow dress, worn at the recent State of the Union address, was seen by some as “off the mark”. One might ask: who is setting the mark, and for how long will they be allowed to make the rules?
A pediatrician I recently met has a full arm of tattoos. Upon closer inspection, I saw that his tattoos depict a charming tableau of amusement park and circus images: a perfect distraction for a little tyke who is nervous at the doctor’s office! What was once considered unthinkable is now being rethought.
After Senator Fetterman’s recovery from a stroke and stint in rehab for depression, he recently returned to the Senate floor wearing his signature hooded sweatshirt and cargo shorts. His choice of attire has raised some eyebrows and has also elicited nods of approval.
Senator Fetterman has been transparent about his physical and mental health journey. He's not afraid to break away from political traditions to show the world his true self. His true self, post rehab was: “I’m still recovering. I can do my job, but I’d like to be in comfortable clothes as I continue to heal.” I understand why the average American may see this as a refreshing change. This relatability may encourage his constituents to take their mental health more seriously.
His detractors say that the informal clothing worn after his return from treatment undermines the seriousness and professionalism expected in his role. If wearing dress shoes and a necktie for eight hours is too difficult for him, how can he be trusted with steering our country? If Fetterman looks like an Everyman heading to Home Depot on Saturday…can he handle the seriousness of his position in the Senate?
So, what's your take on Fetterman's fashion game in the Senate? Are you a fan of his comfy clothes or do you prefer the more traditional approach? The world is changing rapidly. What could be considered the white man’s uniform - a conservative suit and tie - may no longer be appropriate. Allowing diversity expressed through clothing or hair may be something that is here to stay. I invite you to share your thoughts with me!