Fashion and Politics: A Conservative Perspective

In a recent conversation, the editor of a conservative fashion magazine, Conservateur, discussed how concepts like “hotness” are intertwined with political affiliations. Jayme Franklin, the magazine’s founder, shared her views on how cultural trends reflect a left or right political bias.

“If you look at modern art or see how some progressives are embracing unique styles—like dyed hair and septum piercings—there’s been a shift toward what I call ‘uglification,'” Franklin noted. She established Conservateur in 2020 after her graduation from the University of California, Berkeley, aiming to challenge norms in the fashion world.

Franklin mentioned the popularity of their branded “Make America Hot Again” hats, hinting that it resonates on a deeper level: “As parents, we’re striving to be our best selves, and that’s the message we want to convey to women,” she explained.

Caroline Downey, the magazine’s editor, expressed that certain male-led podcasts are labeled as “right wing” simply because they embody comedic spirit. She noted that platforms like Joe Rogan’s have faced backlash for inviting controversial guests but argued that the intent behind his discussions is often misinterpreted. “There’s a tendency to police words and limit discourse, especially when driven by a narrative from the Democrats,” she added.

Their insights came during an exchange with Emma Goldberg from the New York Times, who noted how various cultural arenas signal political leanings. For instance, Broadway shows like “Hamilton” are perceived as left-leaning, while certain forms of entertainment, like stand-up comedy, lean right.

Goldberg explained that individuals often indicate their political stance through their interests—be it movies, attire, or dining choices. Recently, discussions around the term “coded” have gained traction, labeling various cultural markers as indicative of either left or right ideologies. “It’s almost like a game,” she said, “where you try to read between the lines of what a person’s tastes reveal about their beliefs.”

Downey believed this coding fosters a “double economy,” but expressed uncertainty about its future viability. “Honestly, I wonder if it’s sustainable,” she reflected, while noting how this polarization pervades American culture.

As for the impact of leftist influence on institutions, Downey observed, “Coding seems to stem from how the left has quietly seized much of our cultural institutions, including fashion.” She argued that many young women are seeking brands that resonate with their values but feel sidelined by the mainstream options.

Aligning with this sentiment, Franklin articulated that the magazine’s mission is to empower women with traditional values. “It seems the fashion industry has tilted left, and we are keen to attract women who align with a more family-oriented and hardworking lifestyle.