Just a quick note to highlight the fact that I'm not the only one pondering what may be the most clothing-intensive presidential campaign in decades.For it's February issue, one of my favorite magazine, Monocle, analyzed the sartorial flair of the three Democratic front runners. The next issue tackles the Republican field.
Senator Barak Obama won out because of his natural grace and comfort with his own body. Well tailored suits and separates keep the senator looking both casually sharp and in command. Once can imagine that when out on the stump or in the midst of a debate, he is actually wearing his real clothes.
Senator John Edwards was more or less panned for the same reason I cited in a recent column, that he seems inauthentic. The man-of-the-people approach rings untrue because it probably is. He looks as though a pollster dressed him to look "authentic" or some such thing.
Senator Clinton's wardrobe was equally criticized for being both somewhat pedestrian and conversely "pushy PTA" looking. Of course, as a female presidential candidate she is subject to the kind of fashion scrutiny that would send most men running for cover.
Regardless, Monocle is a good read. So pick up a copy or buy an online subscription that gives you access to Monocle's remarkable site. I'm just glad to know I'm not the only one who is amazed at how contrived many of our leading candidates come across.
That being said, for my American readers I have one word: vote. I don't care who you vote for, but vote in your primary and vote in the general election.
I agree that Monocle is an excellent magazine and agree it adds style to an intellectual format. It combines the best of the business world, intellectual combonents and lifestyle pieces and pictures.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I have some complaints such as the love affair with anything European (generally northern, but also Italian) and Japanese. Conversely, I dislike their inability to acknowledge any success or place that the US leads the world. The only people they talk to, Americans included, are people that back up the view that the US is somehow backward culturally and politically, that we will never be great until we forsake a dominant military and except the righteousness of the European view.
I realize that this is not the exact point of your post, but I have slowly started to see Monocle become more popular and receive more acclaim. I truly hope it succeeds here in the States.
Andrew,
ReplyDeleteOverall I agree with your observation that Monocle is a more Eurocentric magazine. That said, I kind of find it refreshing to see the U.S. presented as just another country - one among many.
It gives me different perspective and lets me see this country through the eyes of a European.
As with many of my European friends I think Monocle presents a genuine affection for America but does not shy away from reminding us that there is a whole other world outside our borders.