Trump Women's Magazine Style: Politicization of Aesthetics in Fashion

Trump's Female Supporters' Aesthetic: Blurring Fashion and Politics - Trump Women's Magazine Style: Politicization of Aesthetics in Fashion

The Distinctive "Maga Look" of Women in Donald Trump's Circle: A Political Statement

In the circle of U.S. President Donald Trump, a specific style has emerged that goes beyond mere fashion. The "Maga Look," as it's been dubbed, has become a recognizable, politicized aesthetic that communicates allegiance to conservative values.

Women in Trump's orbit, such as Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, his daughter-in-law Lara Trump, and designated US Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle, all bear the same striking Hallmarks: suntanned complexions, plumped lips, wrinkle-free faces, black eyeliner, extended eyelashes, and prominent eyebrows. Their hair is long, parted in the middle, and slightly wavy[1].

Their appearance, initially spurring curiosity and commentary, carries significant political significance. This politicized presentation is not solely a matter of personal taste but functions as a declaration of loyalty to the MAGA - Make America Great Again - agenda.

Femininity as External Expression

The image of women in Trump's administration is deeply connected to certain patriarchal, evangelical ideals. Historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez argues that this trend became more prevalent during Trump's second term, gaining influence from these conservative circles[1]. These milieus often combine an extreme interpretation of Christian faith with a nationalistic vision of America, and open misogyny prevails, particularly in its extreme elements. Women are expected to be meek and modest, but public figures like Noem and spokesperson Karoline Leavitt present themselves in a way that defies these expectations. They use makeup, cosmetic surgery, and deliberately feminine clothing to showcase themselves as poster girls of the conservative movement, often wearing a visible cross[1].

A Fusion of Femininity and Toughness

The stylized right-wing femininity exemplified by women in Trump's circle is not a new phenomenon. Sarah Palin, a former governor of Alaska and the 2008 Republican vice-presidential candidate, embodying this aesthetic as one of the first women on the national stage[1]. Palin was a former beauty queen, known for her bright outfits, big hair, and ruthless attacks on political opponents, presenting a fusion of femininity and toughness. Palin once humorously remarked that the difference between herself and a pitbull was merely lipstick[1].

In Congress, Republican Representative Nancy Mace has adopted a similar approach, verbally attacking her Democratic colleague Sarah McBride, the first transgender woman in the US Congress, and questioning McBride's womanhood through her style and demeanor[1]. Mace also often posts videos of her political disputes online, where she occasionally uses offensive language. Other Republican congresswomen, such as Marjorie Taylor Greene and Lauren Boebert, also exhibit this aggressive style.

In response to these developments, feminist Ms. Magazine pointedly observed that a Trump supporter wearing a tight dress, with a slit and stilettos, might appear to be taking a stance against transgender rights—dressing as a 'real' woman in the sense of a president who allegedly prefers women who resemble 'pin-up models[1].

Asserting Traditional Gender Roles and Gaining Influence

By adopting this appearance, women in Trump's circle are proudly defending traditional gender roles and aiming to build influence in the social media spotlight, where everyone can reach an audience. Trump's attention might also be an added incentive[1]. However, not every woman in Trump's power circle subscribes to this look. Susie Wiles, Trump's chief of staff, presents a subdued, power-suited image, suggesting complex power dynamics within the movement[1].

The New York Times concludes that this group of MAGA politicians is powerful, as they are easily recognized as part of the conservative team by outsiders[1]. This recognition factor not only boosts visibility on social media but can also be identity-forming, as Trump himself seems to appreciate[1].

[1] Enrichment Data: The MAGA look reinforces traditional gender norms by emphasizing hyper-feminine presentation, such as long hair, heavy makeup, and body-conscious clothing. This aligns with a worldview that prioritizes clear, binary distinctions between men and women and often opposes movements for gender inclusivity and fluidity[1]. The look resonates with patriarchal evangelical Christian ideals, which often promote female submissiveness, modesty (as reimagined in American conservative circles), and the importance of women as caretakers and supporters of male leadership.

1. The "Maga Look" in Donald Trump's circle goes beyond merely being a fashion trend, as it serves as a politicized statement aligned with conservative values and embracing traditional gender norms.
2. The style embraces hyper-feminine presentation through long hair, heavy makeup, and body-conscious clothing, resonating with patriarchal evangelical Christian ideals.
3. In contrast, some women in Trump's power circle, such as Susie Wiles, present a subdued, power-suited image, suggesting the presence of diverse power dynamics within the conservative movement.
4. The group's adoption of this politicized appearance not only boosts their visibility on social media but can also serve as an identity-forming factor, mirroring Trump's preference for recognizable allies within his team.

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