| Keyword |
Description |
| Cultural appropriation |
The act of taking or using things from a culture that is not your own, especially without showing that you understand or respect this culture |
| Motif |
A decorative design or pattern, often repeated, which can hold symbolic significance within a specific culture or artistic tradition |
| Artisan |
A worker in a skilled trade, especially one that involves making things by hand, whose work often carries generational knowledge and cultural history |
When you think of the "Most Stylish People" lists published by major outlets like The New York Times, you probably imagine pop stars, actors, or runway models. However, the 2025 edition has thrown a spotlight on a figure who uses fashion for something much more serious than red carpet clout: Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum. Included among 67 global influencers, Sheinbaum has been recognized not just for looking good, but for redefining what power looks like. For students observing the changing landscape of global politics, her inclusion signals that personal style is becoming an increasingly vital tool for communication and leadership.
Sheinbaum’s aesthetic is deliberate and deeply rooted in identity. Since her very first day in office, she has avoided the standard, rigid business suits often worn by politicians. Instead, she favors modern silhouettes that integrate traditional Mexican artistry, such as the floral dress created by Oaxacan embroiderer Claudia Vásquez Aquino for her inauguration. By consistently wearing garments that feature indigenous motifs, she isn't just making a fashion statement; she is visually amplifying the heritage of Mexico's native communities on the world stage. It is a form of soft power that speaks volumes before she even says a word.
The New York Times highlighted that her style is inextricably linked to her political agenda, specifically her defense of cultural property. Sheinbaum has actively stood against major international brands that copy indigenous designs without credit or compensation—a practice known as cultural appropriation. The article points to her administration's criticism of companies like Adidas for launching products that mimic local styles without community involvement. By wearing authentic artisan-made clothing, Sheinbaum draws a clear line: she supports the original creators and demands that global corporations respect the intellectual property of indigenous artists.
Ultimately, Sheinbaum’s place on this list alongside figures like Melania Trump and Pope Leo XIV highlights the diverse ways public figures curate their images. While others might use accessories like hats to deflect attention or signal tradition, Sheinbaum uses her wardrobe to shine a light on economic justice and national pride. For young people entering a world where image is everything, Sheinbaum offers a masterclass in authenticity. She teaches us that true style isn't about following the latest trend; it's about aligning your outer appearance with your inner values and using your platform to advocate for those who are often overlooked.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English |
Spanish |
| Native |
Nativo |
| Fashion |
Moda |
| National pride |
Orgullo nacional |
Time to discuss
- Do you think it is appropriate for politicians to use fashion as a major part of their political strategy?
- Should global fashion brands be legally required to pay indigenous communities if they use their traditional patterns?
- Does a leader’s clothing choice change how much you trust or respect them?
Let's write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph:
- Analyze how clothing communicates identity. Choose a public figure you admire and explain what their style says about their values.
- Imagine you are a local artisan whose design was copied by a major brand. Write a formal letter to the company explaining why this matters to your community.
