'The necktie is dead': How US midterm candidates are dressing for votes

What the report says

BBC World News reports that several US midterm candidates are using clothing and accessories as part of their campaign messaging, aiming to look both credible and relatable to voters. The article says style has become more visible in the social media era, where appearance can quickly signal identity, class, geography and political values.

Among the examples cited are Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez in Washington and Alaska Democrat Mary Peltola, both of whom favor practical, outdoors-oriented clothing that reflects local culture and their personal backgrounds. Republican Ashley Hinson in Iowa is described as leaning into a more overtly patriotic look, including American-flag imagery and classic casual pieces associated with rural voters.

In Texas, Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico are both shown wearing relaxed blazers and cowboy boots, underscoring how even opposing candidates may draw on the same regional symbols. The report also notes more consistent “personal uniform” styles from figures such as Tennessee Republican Marsha Blackburn and Michigan Democrat Abdul El-Sayed, whose repeated outfits help create a recognizable public image. The broader point, according to the piece, is that campaign wardrobe choices can support political branding, but they can also become a liability if they appear too polished, too casual or out of step with a candidate’s message.