If you identify as female, you’ve likely faced scrutiny over your appearance at some point. From choices in makeup to body type, society’s harsh judgments can feel relentless, especially for women in the spotlight. Take Hillary Clinton, for example—one of the most prominent figures in the world (and certainly not Kim Kardashian). Whether you’re a homemaker, a rural dweller, or a Yale law student, everyone seems to have an opinion on Hillary and her infamous pantsuits.
Clinton embodies inclusivity, playing with a spectrum of colors and fabrics that would make even ROY G BIV proud if he were a real person. Yet, it seems she can never get it right. Too frumpy, too revealing, too tailored, too loose—critics can’t seem to make up their minds.
Can we shift our focus away from the relentless pantsuit critique and recognize her accomplishments? She is a true champion.
Hillary, the woman behind the pantsuit, has been under public scrutiny for years. The endless chatter about her fashion choices is exhausting, and her beloved suits are tired of the commentary. So let’s hear from them directly—this collective of wool, cotton, and cashmere has a few things to express.
The Cleavage Pantsuit
“There was cleavage on display Wednesday afternoon on C-SPAN2. It belonged to Sen. Hillary Clinton. […] There wasn’t an unseemly amount of cleavage showing, but there it was. Undeniable.” —The Washington Post, 2007
Pantsuit Response: Please—I’m a women’s pantsuit! Women have breasts, and they exist under this jacket. How about we discuss more pressing issues, like Social Security or healthcare? Seriously, you’d think we were in middle school. And why does no one comment on the awkwardness of male politicians’ “manspreading” in their tailored suits? Someone get me a drink.
The $12,000 Armani Jacket Pantsuit
The internet erupted when Clinton donned a jacket worth more than $12,000, calling her a hypocrite among other things.
Pantsuit Response: You can’t handle the truth! I’m an expensive jacket, and those with significant means can wear me. Don’t blame the player; blame the game. While you’re busy fuming, remember Sarah Palin’s 2008 wardrobe budget was $150,000. Why is it acceptable for men to flaunt their costly, monotonous suits, but not for women to express themselves? Calm down and consider national security instead.
The Orange Pantsuit
“This orange piece of excrement is beyond belief.” —Anonymous internet user
Pantsuit Response: Original comment there! Perhaps when you achieve something significant, like fighting for social justice and navigating a male-dominated world to reach high office, you can critique my color choices. Until then, enjoy pondering Wall Street reform instead of insulting my vibrant hue.
The Untailored Pantsuit
“I think she’s confused about her gender with these big, baggy, menswear-cut pantsuits.” —Fashion critic Tim Gunn
Pantsuit Response: Tim, really? While you critique fashion, Hillary is tackling climate change and other monumental issues. And guess what? My loose fit doesn’t cause wedgies or muffin tops, so it’s a win for me. Also, mentioning gender confusion in fashion critiques? Not cool, especially for someone who should champion LGBT rights. Shame on you.
The 20 Worst Outfits
“From her striped pants in the late 1960s to her penchant for loud floral prints, FEMAIL has rounded up the politician’s 20 worst outfits from the past 50 years.” —The Daily Mail
Collective Pantsuit Response: What in the world? Why do you care so much? While we appreciate the attention, perhaps those who criticize should focus on how to provide debt-free education rather than tearing us down. Get a real job!
These pantsuits are clearly fed up. Being in the public eye isn’t easy, and while I won’t suggest they toughen up, the scrutiny is only going to intensify. Can we allow a female politician the same freedoms as her male counterparts? Let’s spend more time discussing her policies rather than her stylish mint-green trousers. After all, climbing ladders and breaking glass ceilings is best done in pants.
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In summary, let’s shift the narrative from fashion faux pas to the substantial contributions of powerful women. It’s high time we prioritize discussing their political impact over their sartorial choices.