Fashion undoubtedly plays a role in the political realm of America. Government leaders of the country and celebrities have long been watched for their personal style efforts.
That’s why it comes as a surprise that, one week ago, Melania Trump wore a green jacket with a statement reading “I REALLY DON'T CARE, DO U?" to visit immigrant children located in Texas. While the timing of this fashion choice was an example of a PR nightmare, it shows the true power fashion carries in everyday politics in the U.S.
Donald Trump supporters and administration were quick to state the jacket was just a jacket and carried no underlying meaning, but a figure such as the first lady could not make any style choices on accident. There is limited privacy and expected scrutiny when you are watched closely by American citizens and media.
Melania is especially known for making distinct style choices with notable designers that represent her usual taste in attire. So why would Melania wear a jacket with a message so utterly distasteful at this distressing time?
The answer is simple, to send a message. But what might that message be?
Was Melania saying to the world that she does not care? Was she trying to create media bait? Was she trying to symbolize that Trump supporters in general do not care about what is going on at the border? Or was there another hidden message all together?
Either way this brash style choice took on an internet storm of its own. Social networking sites have blown up with reactions to the style choice.
In contrast of the “I REALLY DON'T CARE, DO U?" message, numerous jackets have been designed in opposition to redirect the message in phrases such as "I really do care, do you?" and “We should all care” to highlight the thoughts and regards of the separated immigrant children.
Trump quickly tweeted in defense, stating the jacket was a message in regards to Melania not caring about fake news.
This defense made by Trump just does not work. Why would fake news be the main focus of Trump or Melania at such a controversial time? This choice was a firm one made by the first lady, or for her.
It is heartbreaking the Trump administration would send such a sinister message at such a sensitive time for these families. While the administration is well known for being overly proactive in the safety from assumed dangerous undocumented immigrants, this message just takes things way too far.
This is a prime example of the administration trying to distract the media from reporting on the real issues — the separation of children from their families.
Fashion choices matter when you are the face of the country, and that is one fact that Melania Trump should care about.
