Culture
Kamala Harris Graces Vogue’s Digital Cover: A Symbol of Power and Transformation
As the 2024 election approaches, Vice President Kamala Harris graces Vogue’s cover, signaling her determination for a second term. Dressed in a sharp mocha suit, she presents a commanding image, far from the casual look of her first Vogue appearance. This cover showcases her growth — from a relatable figure to a poised leader, ready for the challenges ahead.
A lot can change in three years. That’s the message Kamala Harris seems to convey in her latest Vogue cover, unveiled just weeks before the US presidential election. This marks Harris’ second Vogue appearance, and it’s a clear departure from her debut cover in 2021, symbolizing her growth in both politics and style.
Harris, dressed in a sharp mocha suit by Gabriela Hearst and a plum satin blouse, sits poised in a relaxed yet commanding pose. Her cross-legged stance, with one hand on the armrest and the other in her lap, exudes confidence and readiness. The image, shot by acclaimed photographer Annie Leibovitz, reflects Harris’ evolution into a figure of both warmth and authority, a far cry from the casual, Converse-wearing Harris seen on her first cover.
Back in November 2021, when Harris first graced Vogue’s cover as the newly elected Vice President, the image sparked controversy. Dressed in black skinny jeans and low-rise Converse, the casual vibe of the photo was deemed “decidedly unfancy” by The New York Times. Harris’ team reportedly expected a more formal portrait, but Vogue defended their choice, saying the informal look captured Harris’ approachable nature.
Fast forward to 2024, Harris’ latest cover embraces a more formal aesthetic. No longer emphasizing approachability, this new image seems to prepare viewers for the serious, policy-driven discussions ahead, as if they are about to sit across from Harris in an official meeting.
However, not all reactions have been positive. Nigerian-British photographer Misan Harriman took to Instagram to express his wish that Vogue would collaborate more with Black women photographers. Leibovitz, while iconic, has faced criticism for her portrayal of Black and Brown sitters in the past, with some accusing her work of poor lighting and color representation, including in her 2021 shoot with Zendaya.
Despite the critiques, many of Harris’ supporters see this latest cover as a full-circle moment, righting the perceived wrongs of her first Vogue appearance. Now, Harris stands sartorially powerful, without a Chuck Taylor in sight — a fitting look for someone vying for another term in the White House.
