Columnist Sarah Vine has detailed her past experiences with public criticism of her fashion choices, particularly in the context of her then-husband Michael Gove's political career. Vine shared an anecdote from the morning of the EU Referendum vote, where she accompanied Gove to the polling booth, reflecting that she believed she looked "passable" at the time but now acknowledges her outfit was a "spectacularly wrong" choice.
Vine drew a parallel between her own past experiences and the current scrutiny faced by female ministers who are "suddenly thrust into the spotlight" following a Cabinet reshallenge. She noted that not all these women's sartorial choices have been "an unalloyed triumph," and that the public discussion of their appearance is an unfortunate but inherent aspect of public life.
"Is it fair that women should come under this extra scrutiny? Of course it bloody isn’t – but I’m afraid it is just the nature of the beast," Vine wrote. She described her own struggles with finding clothes that flatter her figure, noting that for women who do not fit the "willowy mould favoured by fashion," clothing can be a source of anxiety. She contrasted this with individuals like Lady Starmer and Samantha Cameron, who she believes can wear virtually anything and still look good, and her mother and daughter, who can make inexpensive clothing appear high-fashion.
Vine recounted several instances of what she considers fashion missteps, including an outfit worn to Rupert Murdoch's wedding to Jerry Hall, a state dinner at Buckingham Palace, and a time she was photographed outside her home in a "hideous" chevron-patterned top. She also mentioned an occasion at Westminster Dog of the Year where she appeared to be wearing an "old cushion."
She explained that achieving the right look in public requires significant planning, including considering colors, shapes, and textures under various conditions, as well as appropriate undergarments. This, Vine suggested, can be a "full-time job in itself." Furthermore, she pointed out that what looks good in person may not translate well on camera, especially under flash photography or in high definition, where certain fabrics can be unflattering.
Vine argued that female politicians and their partners are at a disadvantage compared to their male counterparts, who can largely rely on a suit. Women, by contrast, are expected to appear stylish and elegant without seeming to try too hard, and ideally without repeating outfits.
Reflecting on her own past, Vine stated that the public attention to her appearance was a "rude awakening." She realized she had "let herself go" and that the gap between her self-perception and reality had widened with age. This realization prompted her to lose weight, exercise more, and generally take better care of herself. While she doesn't claim to be a style expert, she now has a better understanding of what works for her and has learned to manage her appearance for the cameras.
Vine humorously suggested that Westminster might benefit from a uniform to create a "level playing field," likening the institution's structure to a school. She concluded by expressing a desire not to see certain fashion choices repeated, referencing a specific jacket worn by Angela Rayner.