In a 2009 issue of The New Yorker, Robin Givhan comments on the fashion of First Lady Michelle Obama: specifically pointing out her choice of sleeveless shirts. Givhan describes Obama’s limbs and argues that they: “imply vanity and power: two things that make many women uncomfortable and yet are fundamental to self-confidence.” I chose this article not because I believe it is Givhan’s strongest or most moving piece, but because I am deeply interested in why these words sound so unsettling. The article begins with a brief discussion of Obama’s legacy, followed by several backwards compliments that imply a woman above the age of forty is doing something revolutionary by going to the gym instead of spending every second taking care of her family or, apparently, watching Oprah. But these descriptors feel dated. Is it really so very vain to exercise? So bold to have one’s arms showing? It is a troubling suggestion that goes undeveloped in this short article.
Questions:
- Do you feel like you are ever objectifying your subjects when you discuss their fashion choices at this level of detail, in such a personalized way?
- Do these same levels of scrutiny and “implications” apply equally to male and female profiles?