That White Blazer is Ablazin'

No. 31

Welcome to Style / Substance, a weekly newsletter about personal style, the business and psychology of fashion, and outfit and brand recommendations - all to make your life easier. You can subscribe here and follow me on Instagram at @LauraKSawyier. Thank you!

There’s a longstanding history in this country of courageous, steadfast women who speak up and speak the truth, particularly against bullies, individuals, and groups who make threats in order to protect themselves or their skewed idea of power. Some of these women notably wear white at these momentous events. 

One such woman is Cassidy Hutchinson when she appeared before the Jan. 6 committee last week.

What she said was of primary importance, but I’m lasering in on the white power blazer she wore with esteem and strength as she sat steadfast, answering questions and recounting her experiences on that fateful day. One can only assume that her clothing choices gave her a small semblance of comfort and confidence as a witness at this hearing, something no one anticipates having to do in their lifetime. 

I’d further posit that her choice in wearing white signaled a tribute to the Suffragettes and the women throughout our modern history who showed up unwavering in white declaring allegiance, protest, change, and hope simultaneously. 

Shirley Chisholm, the first black woman elected to Congress, wore all white on her first day in 1969. Hillary Clinton wore white in 2016 at the DNC, Democratic women of congress have worn white ensembles in solidarity with women’s issues over the years, including the 2019 protest at the State of the Union address. The list goes on.

It wasn’t solely the fact that Cassidy Hutchinson commanded the room in a perfectly-tailored white blazer with subtle structure in the shoulder pad, draped to fit just right at the width of her natural shoulders, or that the button enclosure kept the fit tapered and tasteful without any pulls or drags across the front. Not too loose, not too tight. It was also her minimalist approach to hair, makeup, jewelry, and that powerful white blazer coupled with her composure, grace, tone, and steadiness in speech - all of which were the perfect ingredients depicting executive presence at its finest. 

Was the selection of white consciously or subconsciously a nod to Suffragettes? You may never know, but it is absolutely an interpretation that links Hutchinson with power moves and powerful women.

---

Know someone who would enjoy this newsletter? Fashion is for all. Spread the love and share with them by clicking the link below.

---

Rock a White Blazer Like Cassidy Hutchinson

Style Culture

If there’s ever a time to be inspired to bring the blazer back into the rotation after the past two years, it’s now. Thanks to Hutchinson’s sartorial presence in a polished white blazer, I’ve styled two women’s white blazer ensembles for you to walk out the door in tomorrow.

SHOP (above): Cinq a Sept Khloe Crepe 3/4-Sleeve Blazer // Lizzie Fortunato La Bomba Turquoise Hoop Earrings // Alice + Olivia Tevin Open-Knit Cropped Drawstring Tank Top // Polo Ralph Lauren Handkerchief-Hem Pleated Georgette Skirt // Bembien Jeanne Bag // Veronica Beard Dali Woven Platform Wedge Sandal

SHOP (above): Veronica Beard Scuba Dickey Jacket // Banana Republic Luxe Touch Tank // Lescarf No.2 Striped Silk-twill Scarf // Mother High Waist Rider Ankle Jeans // Stuart Weitzman Goldie Sneaker // Jennifer Fisher Kevin Silver-plated Hoop Earrings

---

The Latest

• Beauty refresh: Here’s a balanced approach to an effortless summery glow for all.

• The green wave: Clothing’s impact on protest and history is profound.

• Want to wear your support? Look no further for statement clothing.