Fashion has always been political, as popular menswear writer and commentator Derek Guy highlighted in his recent tweet. He responded to a tweet from a user who said, "Even clothes have to be political. Ridiculous.
" Derek replied, " Clothes have long been political," and shared a lengthy thread on X (formerly Twitter) explaining the history of fashion in politics. Scroll down to know more. (Also read: Lucknow slum kids' Sabyasachi-inspired bridal outfits made from donated clothes win internet; designer responds ) Exploring fashion's political roots Derek began by explaining how Victorian feminists in the 19th century wore union suits—a more comfortable, one-piece garment that broke from restrictive fashion norms.
This move sparked change; even men later adopted this undergarment style, leading to the T-shirt as we know it. "Reform movements often emerge in response to cultural constraints," Derek noted, showing how clothing innovations have roots in political and social shifts. Derek's insights also explore how fashion became a class signal.
In the late 19th century, when British politician Keir Hardie arrived in Parliament wearing a simple suit rather than the expected frock coat and top hat, he signalled solidarity with the working class. "Fashion has often been a silent code," Derek explained, "and Hardie's attire spoke volumes about his alignment with labour rights." Similarly, in the United States, capitalists and managers adopted the three-piece suit as a uniform to d.
