Last night’s various post-primary speeches in New Hampshire were mesmerising, for a variety of reasons. From the ridiculous quotes (Ron Paul: “We ARE dangerous”; Jon Huntsman: “Third Place: we’re in the hunt” — you have to wonder what genius strategist thought that one up) to the way battle for hearts and eyes is shaping up, the Republican stump style is solidifying:
Mitt Romney and his family match perfectly - Getty
1. Mitt Romney
Cruising to victory, the Romney machine communicated in one picture, unity, coordination and confidence. The candidate was in a dark suit, print tie and white shirt, in contrast to his wife, Ann, in a white suit. They were both framed by their sons in — oh, the harmony of it all! — white shirts and dark pants (two), and white shirts, their Dad’s favourite V-neck sweater and khakis (the other two). It’s not a look that someone aiming to contradict charges of smoothness and manipulation would choose (not one hair out of place), but increasingly the Romney campaign seems to be letting the candidate stay in his comfort zone, complete with teleprompter, and boy did these guys looks comfortable — and reliable — on stage.
I was wrong yesterday — at least partly. In the end, after campaigning down to the wire in Iowa in shirts with sweater vests (Rick Santorum), shirts and tees (Ron Paul), and V-neck grandpa numbers and jeans (Mitt Romney), the big three Republican presidential rivals all disappeared into their various hotels — almost as good as a phone booth — and changed into suits and ties for the final tally.
It’s a bird … it’s a plane … it’s Mitt Romney by eight!
Apparently, the super-approachable, guy-like-you look is seen as only for the street, the school and the diner. When it comes time to accept or cede, a potential leader needs to look Presidential, and that means suit and tie. Check out the before and after shots (same day): presto change-o.
Mitt Romney - before. Getty Images
Mr Romney celebrated his win in the centrist clear blue tie that has become a favourite of both parties.
Mitt Romney - after. Getty Images
Mr Santorum appeared in graphic diagonal red stripes; and the third place winner, Ron Paul, was in a kind of combo of both: graphic blue stripes. And white shirts and dark suits for all, natch.
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Vanessa has been the FT’s fashion editor since 2003, and is based in New York, though she lived in London for 12 years.
