The sartorial shaming of new Green MP Hannah Spencer during her maiden speech in Parliament has ignited a debate about the scrutiny of women politicians' appearances. Spencer wore a pink shirt, blue waistcoat, and tailored green trousers, which some critics likened to a clown or children's TV presenter outfit. The criticism prompted one Twitter user to use AI to 'correct' her look to a plain white shirt and navy pencil skirt, a style reminiscent of senior Labour women.
Despite the outcry, Spencer's attire complies with parliamentary dress guidelines outlined in Erskine May. The issue appears to be her choice of colours beyond the traditional navy, black, and charcoal. Former Conservative staffer Cleo Watson notes that female MPs often face tedious scrutiny of their appearance, while male politicians like Barack Obama are praised for wearing a 'uniform' to reduce decision-making.
Watson recalls that Conservative candidates were offered colour consultations to determine their 'season' and were advised to shop at LK Bennett for structured dresses and pencil skirts. Theresa May broke this mould by wearing bold items like leopard-print kitten heels and leather trousers, which were generally well-received.
Watson offers styling tips for Spencer and other women MPs: invest in a weekly blow-dry and dry shampoo, keep interesting accessories in a desk drawer, and wear what makes you feel good. She advises ignoring all comments on appearance, including her own.
