Sizing up Obama’s, Romney’s, style statements
The Leader of the Free World isn’t meant to be a fashion plate. We’d rather see him with his sleeves rolled up, sorting out the economy, after all. And yet, we expect the president to look distinguished and stately. It’s a fine balance to strike. We size up the opponents.
The grooming
Barack Obama
Showing the strain: It can’t be easy running the country and a campaign. The stress of it all is visible in Obama’s sallow eyes and gaunt complexion. Chug a cappuccino — the finish line is near.
Mitt Romney
Throughout the campaign, the one sure thing Romney has going for him is his perfect hair. He also has a reassuringly strong jawline, but we’ve seen how he feels after a barrage of political punches.
The shirt and tie
Barack Obama
The incumbent president’s rolled-up sleeves and crumpled shirt is an attempt to transcend the divide between white- and blue-collar workers. It’s a contrived look, but voters always prefer a people’s president — and Obama is just that.
Mitt Romney
The 65-year-old’s looking a bit scrawny around the neck, but the shirt’s a pretty good fit. However, the neatly rolled sleeves are boardroom length (rather than, say, for any physical labor), while the zippy tie screams country club.
The suit
Barack Obama
No jacket is a politician’s way of saying the gloves are off. But the cinched waist and pleated trousers make Obama look like he’s been missing his morning protein shake.
Mitt Romney
Ack! More drab old slacks. Here his are belted high, with the shirt billowing at the waist. Romney, there’s no excuse: You can afford the finest — and a stylist to boot.
