The New York Times' fashion coverage has drawn criticism for its commentary on the style choices of conservative women in Washington, particularly regarding maternity wear. The critique, authored by longtime Fashion Director Vanessa Friedman, focused on Second Lady Usha Vance, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, and Katie Miller, wife of White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller.
The article suggests that these women, all of whom are pregnant or have recently given birth, have faced scrutiny for embracing their pregnant forms with fitted dresses that accentuate, rather than conceal, their baby bumps. This approach is contrasted with the looser garments favored by some public figures in the past.
According to the assessment, the fashion world, perceived as largely progressive, has struggled to define its stance on conservative women in public life. The article posits that if these women were on the political left, their fashion choices might be met with different reception.
One instance cited involves Jennifer Rauchet, wife of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who wore a dress from a discount retailer to the White House Correspondents' Dinner. The article suggests that a similar choice by a Democratic figure might have been framed as "fashion-forward" and relatable, while Rauchet's choice was reportedly dismissed.
The commentary further argues that the Times' focus on Vance and Leavitt's "body-aware" and "body-hugging" maternity attire is politically charged. It questions whether the criticism highlights a discomfort with the visible joy these women express about their pregnancies, which the author suggests challenges a prevailing narrative in some feminist circles that pregnancy can be an interruption or a form of oppression.
The article contends that conservative women are subtly using their clothing choices, including public displays of pregnancy, as a form of cultural expression that contradicts narratives around motherhood. It suggests that the act of confidently displaying pregnancy and embracing maternity wear challenges perceptions that motherhood is an impediment to capability or relevance.