Blog #23

Fashion is an interesting topic in regards to female politicians and lawyers. Women in a professional sense are critiqued in a much higher degree than that of their male counterparts. Prominent women as well as everyday business women find themselves constantly watching what they wear to work every single day. Our publically viewed women mostly conform to the perceived norm in regards to what they do and do not wear in public. Michelle Obama today, much like Jackie Kennedy in the 60’s is taking women’s fashion to the next level. Michelle Obama has been scrutinized of late for not conforming to the conservative first lady’s typical appearance. Keep in mind the standard for the way the first lady is supposed to dress has been set by white middle class America. People have taken the issue of Michelle Obama’s clothing and blown it completely out of proportion. Is this related to race? Or does it have a direct correlation with what other first ladies of the past have worn? I think it’s both. On a recent trip to Arizona Michelle Obama wore shorts to the Grand Canyon. Keep in mind this is Arizona and the weather was between 80-90 degrees. The media had their heyday claiming that Mrs. Obama was flaunting her legs. I don’t think this was her intent but who cares if it was. Women including Mrs. Obama are dressing differently than women of similar stature did in the past. They may not use the same conservative clothing; however they do it in a classy tactful way. Women in English’s study also found themselves trying to wear bland conforming clothing to fit in with their male counterparts. They wanted to essentially blend in not being seen as week lesser sex. I really see this as non issue. Women in the public’s view should be able to wear what they want. I find it very sad that our society has to scrutinize women for what they wear leaving their male counterparts to do as they please.