Emily Ratajkowski, Stormy Daniels, and the Power of Political Fashion
In a world where actions speak louder than words, fashion has become a powerful tool for political expression. Recently, model and actor Emily Ratajkowski made a bold statement during the final day of Donald Trump’s hush money criminal trial. She was spotted in New York City wearing a graphic T-shirt featuring Stormy Daniels’ face, the adult film star who was allegedly paid hush money by Trump. The $95 shirt was designed by cartoonist Robert Crumb and supports the New York-based organization, Safe Horizon, which helps victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Fashion has a long history of being used for political activism. From British designer Katherine Hammett’s politically charged T-shirts in the 1980s to Ratajkowski’s Rage Against the Machine shirt featuring Bernie Sanders, clothing has been a medium for sending messages. Even Queen Elizabeth II used her attire to make a subtle statement during a televised speech on Brexit legislation.
At the Cannes Film Festival, actress Cate Blanchett’s dress raised questions about its symbolism amid the conflict in Gaza. The half black, half blush-toned pink gown with an emerald green lining was seen by some as a nod to the Palestinian flag. However, explicit displays of support are not always well-received, as seen when Vanity Fair France edited out a Palestinian pin worn by actor Guy Pearce in a photoshoot.
Despite the controversy, Ratajkowski’s choice of wearing a shirt supporting Stormy Daniels speaks volumes. Both women have faced challenges in being heard and respected, with Daniels refusing to be silenced by a powerful man and Ratajkowski speaking out about her experiences with sexual assault in her book “My Body.” In a world where messages are often watered down, sometimes the most powerful statements are made through subtle design choices.
As fashion continues to be a form of expression, it’s clear that what we wear can say as much about our beliefs as our words. Ratajkowski and Daniels have shown that standing up for what you believe in can be as simple as putting on a T-shirt.
Keywords: Emily Ratajkowski, Stormy Daniels, political fashion, clothing activism, Cate Blanchett, Cannes Film Festival
Source: CNN