Exploring Political Coding in Fashion: Insights from The Conservateur Editors

The editors of The Conservateur, a conservative fashion magazine, recently shared their views on the intersection of style and political ideologies. In a compelling interview, they explained how various aspects of the fashion industry have become ideologically charged, reflecting a broader trend of political polarization.

Jayme Franklin, the founder and CEO of The Conservateur, offered insights into this phenomenon. She highlighted a noticeable shift in fashion, where concepts like ‘hotness’ increasingly align with left-wing sentiments. Franklin explained the term ‘uglification’ as a symptom of this shift, where modern art and fashion trends reflect progressive ideals. She noted, ‘There is a pressure on women to reject traditional norms, as indicated by trends like blue hair and septum piercings.’

Her motivation to establish The Conservateur magazine in 2020 stemmed from a desire to counteract the pervasive left-wing bias within the fashion industry. A University of California-Berkeley graduate, Franklin aimed to create a platform that celebrates traditional values and empowers women in their pursuit of style and self-expression.

Redefining Style with a Conservative Lens

Beyond promoting a unique aesthetic, The Conservateur also introduced the ‘Make America Hot Again’ hat, which quickly gained popularity among its audience. Franklin explained, ‘While it is a playful piece of merchandise, it represents a larger movement towards embracing one’s identity and values.’ The magazine aspires to encourage women to present their best selves, reflecting a blend of style and self-affirmation.

Caroline Downey, the editor-in-chief, contributed to the conversation by discussing the coding of various media outlets. She pointed out that some male-led podcasts are often labeled as ‘right-wing’ simply for their irreverent nature. Downey stated, ‘These programs do not police language and aim to pursue truth. Joe Rogan, for instance, gets criticized for featuring controversial figures, yet his intention is to engage in stimulating discussions.’

The Rise of Cancel Culture

In Downey’s view, the free-spirited discourse found in these podcasts stands in stark contrast to the current climate of cancel culture and stringent political correctness. She emphasized, ‘During a time marked by a strict adherence to propaganda, unfiltered conversation has become a badge of honor, albeit one that is unfairly coded as right-wing.’ This reflects a concerning trend where open dialogue is increasingly stifled in favor of conformity.

Downey’s comments came during an interview with Emma Goldberg, as they examined how cultural phenomena and institutions are increasingly labeled with political affiliations. For example, Goldberg noted that productions like Broadway’s ‘Hamilton’ and ‘Rent’ are often perceived as left-coded, while genres like comedy and wrestling seem to align with right-leaning values.

The Influence of Cultural Signaling

The coding of values in our media consumption has sparked a broader conversation about the implications of such divisions. Goldberg observed that individuals frequently express their beliefs through the shows they watch, the brands they support, and even the restaurants they visit. She stated, ‘The concept of reading cultural tea leaves has gained immense popularity, showcasing how we categorize elements of lifestyle and entertainment.’ This phenomenon exhibits the complexities of modern cultural engagement.

Concerns About a Divided Market

Downey went on to argue that the prevailing trend of coding activities along ideological lines fosters a fragmented economy. She raised concerns about sustainability, saying, ‘I’m not convinced that a dual economy, driven by red and blue branding, is viable long-term.’ This observation prompts a critical examination of how political identity influences consumer choices and brand loyalty.

Moreover, Downey pointed to the ubiquitous use of the term ‘coded’ in today’s discourse, reflecting the deeply entrenched divisions within American society. She stated, ‘Leftism has infiltrated numerous cultural institutions, including fashion, leading to a coded branding that resonates with many women seeking alternatives.’ This notion underlines the need for an inclusive representation of styles that cater to different beliefs.

The Need for a New Representation

Franklin further echoed the sentiment that many fashion brands lean left, underscoring a gap in the market for conservative voices. She expressed a desire to reach women who hold traditional values, explaining, ‘Our objective at The Conservateur is to resonate with women who cherish family, hard work, and their love for this country.’ Franklin’s vision for The Conservateur encapsulates a commitment to uplifting styles that reflect a broader, more inclusive range of perspectives.

As the fashion industry continues to evolve amidst political currents, discussions surrounding coding in style and media will likely intensify. The Conservateur stands as a testament to the potential for a conservative voice within the fashion world, demonstrating that diverse expressions of identity and belief can coexist even in turbulent times.

Hope for a Balanced Future

The dialogue surrounding fashion and political ideology has illuminated the intricate dynamics at play within the industry. As conversations around coding in fashion expand, it becomes increasingly essential to cultivate spaces that welcome divergent viewpoints. Ultimately, The Conservateur and its mission to empower women offers a glimpse of hope that the future of fashion can embrace a more balanced representation of styles and ideologies, fostering unity rather than division.