AOC On Fashion ++

 The Insta-Fashionista ALEXANDRIA OCASIO-CORTEZ

2023’s Best Political Fashion Moments

By DEREK GUY   12/31/2023

2019 Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
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Instagram is the main social media platform for fashion, and it’s dominated by influential brands, media giants and high-profile influencers. But even in this crowded field, the best fashion-related Instagram post of 2023 was made by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Shortly after returning from her diplomatic tour of Latin America this summer, she posted a series of Instagram stories breaking down her thought process behind what she decided to pack. She write:

Dress is a form of communication. Whether one likes it or not, the way one dresses sends many messages at once.

Her post was a great insight into the communicative power of clothing, helping to dispel the idea that fashion is just frivolity. It’s no surprise that it came from one of the most stylish people in Washington who has been particularly adept at social media. 

This past year, AOC sported a beautifully cut white suit to see Chilean President Gabriel Boric, a black scarf blouse for her meeting with Chilean Minister Camila Vallejo and a chic black midi dress with a mock neck and side slits for her appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers. “I chose white, which to me is a color of hope and healing,” she said of her white suit. “Despite the challenges, I have hope for both Chile and the US-Chile relationship to move forward in truth and healing.”

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Also read the Bazaar article: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Defends Harry Styles After He Was Criticized for Wearing a Dress

DIMITRIOS KAMBOURIS//GETTY IMAGES

Earlier this month, Harry Styles graced the December cover of Vogue, and discussed his desire to remove gender barriers in fashion. In the feature, the singer wore both men's and women's clothing, including gorgeous couture gowns, for which he received some criticism. However, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is the latest person in the public eye to defend Styles.

When asked what she thought about Stylus' decision to wear a dress in the publication, AOC replied in her Instagram Stories, "It looks wonderful. The masculine and feminine elements are balanced beautifully – the hair and jacket styling give me James Dean vibes too."