For some people, fashion is just colored fabric that you throw on to leave the house in the morning. For others, it’s a way to express themselves in ways they may not be able to say through words. In politics, fashion is able to convey messages of ideology, identity, and resistance.
Throughout the years, many political figures as well as celebrities have utilized fashion in order to get a message across about a cause they support. Whether through long silky dresses or small pins adorning a fashionable suit, many celebrities draw attention to causes that viewers just can’t look away from.
One bold political statement made through fashion was during the 2021 Met Gala, when Democratic congress member Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez attended the event with a long white dress, reading, “TAX THE RICH,” a statement made towards reducing wealth inequality and taxing billionaires.
Many found her dress to be overly political, with Republican congress members even launching an investigation on her, believing she was paid to wear the dress and thinking her actions were against congressional rules, when in reality they were not.
Another type of showing support for a movement was during the 2024 Oscars, when many celebrities arrived at the event wearing red pins with an orange hand and a black heart — showing their support for an immediate ceasefire fire in Gaza. Artists and actors such as Billie Eilish, Mark Ruffalo, and Rammy Yousef were praised for their show of support for the ceasefire as many aligned with their beliefs.
Artists also showed their support for putting an end to ice activity in America – with many artists wearing an “ICE OUT” pin during the February 2026 Grammy’s. With musician Olivia Dean making a speech regarding immigrants stating “I’m up here as a granddaughter of an immigrant… I’m a product of bravery, and I think those people deserve to be celebrated.”
Although many support the artist’s decision to wear these pins, there were also people who discouraged their support for ICE. Emily Austin, a live streamer, went viral for her reaction to Billie Eilish’s speech about being against ICE practices — making sneering remarks when Billie Eilish stated “No one is illegal on stolen land”.
Fashion will continue to remain in politics and convey a message even if people choose not to say them directly. Clothing is able to communicate someone’s beliefs, identity and values without having to say a single word. Because of this, fashion will likely be an outlet of political expression in our society.
