PHOTOS: The 9 Best Dressed Republicans Of 2010
by Justin Fenner | 5:49 pm, December 16th, 2010
We know that Styleite isn’t even a year old yet, but we’ve still been around long enough to witness some of the 2010’s great moments in style. From all of our favorite stars (on the red carpet and off) to all the trends that rocked the boat and our worlds, we’re proud to present the very best of 2010, a year whose style will never been forgotten.
Whatever your political persuasion, there’s no doubting that there are style stars on both sides of America’s great political divide. And for Republicans in offices both large and small, sharply tailored, classic clothing imbued with modern styling is what makes the difference between those who stand out and those who blend in. Herein, ten members of the Grand Old Party who make dressing well as important as toeing the party line.
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1. Rep. Aaron Schock, Illinois
GQ tested, Styleite approved. Aaron Schock might be the youngest member of our Congress, but he's been one of the most stylish since assumed office in 2009
2. Dr. Condoleeza Rice
She's no longer a government official, but Condoleeza Rice has won some major style points this year. Make all the "pre-Michelle Obama" comments you like, but we think Rice's penchant for bracelet sleeves, trim suits and, well, a clear desire to embody the world elegant wherever she goes makes her one of the most stylish women to touch American history in years.
3. Rep. David Drier, California
Without a doubt (and with no offense meant to our other well-dressed legislators and people of power), David Drier might just be the most stylish man ever to have set foot on Capitol Hill. He's the only member of Congress we've ever seen wear the Prince of Wales check, and if he's wearing a suit, it's a safe bet he's also wearing a crisp white pocket square, something too few men in government do.
4. Rep. Paul Ryan, Wisconsin
It's subtle, but Paul Ryan really understands pattern. While most of his colleagues trudge out of the cloakroom wearing boring, boxy black or blue suits, Ryan takes chances with toned down patterns and (on occasion) a really fun tie.
5. Lt. Gov. Elect Jennifer Carroll, Florida
2010 was the year of the red suit, and no one understood that better than Jennifer Carroll, who never allowed the bright color or modern lines of the red suit she's been photographed to death in overpower her.
6. Meg Whitman
Meg Whitman might have lost the California gubernatorial race, but she won major style points every time she set foot on the political stage. When was the last time you saw a ruched lapel that didn't annoy you? We never had -- until Whitman, that is.
7. Gov. Elect Nikki Haley, South Carolina
There's something, dare we say it, Wintour-esque about the suits Nikki Haley has been wearing since she was elected governor of SC. We're not sure if it's the tweed or the bracelet sleeves or the piping that reminds us of a certain French fashion house that for legal reasons will go unnamed, but Haley looks good.
8. Sarah Palin
Like Condoleeza Rice, Sarah Palin doesn't hold an office. What she does have, however, is a serious commitment to her appearance that puts even the most diehard of fashionistas to shame. Wherever she goes, Palin is well groomed, well put together polished beyond the point of perfection. And somehow, she makes it look like the easiest thing in the world.
9. State Rep. Themis Klarides, Connecticut
Color? Yes. Pattern? Obviously. Je ne sais quoi? Absolument. Never have we seen a state representative dress so fearlessly as Themis Klarides.
Aaron Schock Best Dressed Republicans best dressed republicans 2010 Condoleeza Rice GOP Jane Harman Jennifer Carroll Meg Whitman Nikki Haley Paul Ryan Republican Party Sarah Palin Themis Klarides