Ella Emhoff’s Fashion Highlights at the Democratic National Convention
This week at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, the fashion spotlight has shone brightly on a few standout figures, from Michelle Obama’s avant-garde Monse suit to Kamala Harris’s bespoke Chloé ensemble and Jill Biden’s dazzling blue Ralph Lauren gown. However, it was Ella Emhoff, the stepdaughter of Vice President Kamala Harris, who truly stole the fashion show with her vibrant and playful style.
Ella Emhoff, a model signed with IMG, and a talented artist and fashion designer, has made a name for herself in high fashion since her stepmother assumed office. Known affectionately as the “First Daughter of Bushwick,” Emhoff has previously graced the runways for renowned designers like Proenza Schouler and Maisie Wilen. Her fashion journey gained significant attention when she appeared in a striking houndstooth outfit at President Joe Biden’s inauguration in 2021.
This week, Emhoff has once again demonstrated why she is a fashion icon in the making. On Monday, she turned heads in a sleeveless Helmut Lang scarf top paired with pleated pants and a camo hunter camp jacket, showcasing her eclectic style. The following night, she embraced a classic Thom Browne plaid suit, complementing it with her curls slicked back and carrying a quirky cookie bag from the cult brand Puppets and Puppets. Her playful Instagram post revealing her emotional moment while watching her father, Doug Emhoff, take the stage, added a personal touch to her public appearances.
On Thursday, Emhoff took the stage herself to address the convention. She shared a heartfelt tribute to her “Momala,” Kamala Harris, reflecting on the Vice President’s supportive role in her life. Her speech emphasized the importance of family, a key theme of the convention, and was delivered in a stunning off-the-shoulder asymmetric baby blue and white gown with a drop-waist and hand-ruched tulle skirt. This dress, designed by social media personality and designer Joe Ando, was a testament to Emhoff’s unique style. The gown, which took three days to create, featured a delicate flower detail crocheted by Emhoff herself.
Emhoff’s choice of attire, paired with Gen Z’s favorite tall white socks and black Mary Jane flats, combined classic feminine elements with modern, edgy touches. The dress showcased her patchwork tattoos, signaling a fresh approach to political fashion. Her appearance is a powerful statement, encouraging a shift in the traditional dress codes of female political figures and ushering in a new era of youthful and contemporary political fashion.
