Since announcing her bid for the U.S. presidency in July, Vice President Kamala Harris has been turning heads with her elevated style, trading her signature Chuck Taylors for chic Manolo Blahnik pumps. Harris has seamlessly blended elegance with her trademark cool, sporting a mix of sophisticated pantsuits and stylish sneakers. This new look hasn’t gone unnoticed, as sales of Chuck Taylor sneakers skyrocketed by 4,500% online between July and early August, signaling the influence of her fashion choices.
Harris seems to reserve the sleek Manolo pumps for official campaign events, echoing her professional roots. “As a lawyer and later an attorney general, that was her look,” explains LA-based designer Sergio Hudson. “It’s crisp, it’s professional, and she’s comfortable in something that has to work for her all day. Ultimately, she makes fashion work for her position; she doesn’t make her position work for fashion”, told The Hollywood Reporter.
Hudson, who has worked closely with Harris on her wardrobe, notes that her styling is always intentional and precise. “The emphasis was about ensuring she is taken seriously as an elected official; she never wants to be perceived as a fashion plate,” he says. “Initially, the suits I made for her were only black, navy, or gray. Now, as she’s become more comfortable, we’re designing suits in more colors. Prabal [Gurung] did a tan suit, while I’ve done a pink suit and recently a brightly colored turquoise one.”
Harris’s style evolution is also marked by symbolic choices, like the striking purple coat and dress by Christopher John Rogers, worn to represent unity and bipartisanship. The choice of purple—a blend of Republican red and Democratic blue—was a deliberate nod to her commitment to bridging political divides.
Kamala Harris is a master at fusing tradition with modernity, curating outfits that convey power, grace, and a deep sense of purpose. She has redefined the classic power suit with bold colors and contemporary designs, while still honoring the traditional black and navy suits. Her burgundy pantsuit, for instance, stands out in a sea of more conventional hues, showcasing her willingness to push boundaries and defy expectations.
Her suits are more than just fashion statements; they are meticulously crafted to fit perfectly, reflecting a level of professionalism and attention to detail that is vital for any leader. From the sharp cut of her blazers to the precise taper of her pants, Harris’s style communicates diligence, readiness, and the confidence that has defined her political career.