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Fashion has always been political. Over the past few years, we’ve witnessed this with Beyoncé’s iconic 2016 Super Bowl Halftime Show, the 2018 Golden Globes red carpet, and the 2019 State of the Union. We’ve also seen it in Melania Trump’s “I Don’t Really Care, Do U?” jacket and Donald Trump’s infamous “Make America Great Again” hat. Now, with November just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start looking for Election Day merch to wear to the polls and beyond. Let’s be honest, you need a cute top and accessories to go with your “I Voted” selfie. But don’t worry, if you’re voting by mail, there are still ways you can show your support virtually.
However, if you’re planning on wearing certain items to the polls, it’s important that you do research into what you can and can’t wear. Most states won’t allow you to campaign around a certain distance from the polling location, and that includes wearing political outfits. Although, you can certainly get creative – for example, in 2018 my mom dressed as a handmaid from the Handmaid’s Tale to make her own political fashion statement.
Whether you’re wearing these pieces to class, the grocery store or directly to the polls, here are 12 pieces of election merch you seriously need to add to your wardrobe – including a Michelle Obama inspired necklace!
- “I Just Took a DNA Test Turns Out I’m 100% Voting in 2020” T-Shirt
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This Lizzo-inspired tee comes from my own shop, Blessed Be The Brains. Let everyone know you’re both a Lizzo stan and you’re 100% voting this year. All proceeds go towards the fight for reproductive rights and other progressive organizations, like the Victory Fund and RAICES Texas. Just for fun, the price is $20.20.
- “VOTE” Hair Clip
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A sparkly “VOTE” hair clip from hcxo.shop? Honestly, say less. This hair accessory is a perfect subtle reminder, but also super cute and super affordable at $7!
- “Grab Him By The Polls” Navy Heather Cropped T-Shirt
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This genius tee is currently available from He’s Fired 2020, where 20% of proceeds go to race education for youth, common sense gun reform, and scholarships for DREAMers. This classic tee can be dressed up with a patterned midi skirt or dressed down with any pair of jeans.
- “If You Are Not Angry You Are Not Paying Attention” T-Shirt
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I honestly can’t think of a better shirt for 2020, or a better way to grab someone’s attention. For $13.45, you can snag this top – and absolutely wear it beyond just Election Day.
- #MarchForOurLives “United We Stand” Apparel
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I won’t lie, this is one of my favorite shirts, and it supports the March For Our Lives movement. The best part? That QR code in the American flag directs you to register to vote! It comes as a t-shirt, a long-sleeved tee or a hoodie.
- “Why Be Racist, Sexist, Homophobic, or Transphobic When You Could Just Be Quiet?” T-Shirt
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In case this iconic shirt didn’t convince you on its own, it was originally made famous by Frank Ocean after he wore it for his Panorama Music Festival performance. Since then, this popular phrase – and shirt – has blown up. It’s even been seen on progressive king Harry Styles. So basically, you really need this shirt if you don’t have it already.
- “I’m So Angry I Could Vote” T-Shirt
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I mean, c’mon! This shirt is not only evergreen, but yet another 2020 mood. Also, poll friendly! This is another shirt from Blessed Be The Brains, where 100% of proceeds go to the fight for reproductive rights and other progressive organizations.
- “Policy Is My Love Language” T-Shirt
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If you’re a policy guru or just love legislative change, this shirt is perfect, and supports U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley, one of the incredible women from “The Squad.” There’s no better way to show you support change than proclaiming policy as your love language – and of course, voting.
- “Change Takes Courage” T-Shirt
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This “change takes courage” shirt is a great call to action, and also a super grassroots-y slogan from none other than Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez — inspired by her remarkable campaign launch video. I’ll be honest, it was hard just choosing one item from her store, so definitely be sure to check out her other merch!
- “Green New Deal” T-Shirt
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Show your support for the Green New Deal! Written by Senator Ed Markey and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, you can purchase this GND shirt from Senator Markey’s store, along with some other fire merch from his historic campaign. This is absolutely a shirt I could see Harry Styles in, so get ahead of the trend.
- Feminist Heroes T-Shirt
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This shirt from Little Woman Goods is one of my absolute favorites. Feminist heroes on a peachy pink shirt? Could not be more on brand. This tee can be all yours for $28, but check out their other pins and stickers, too!
- Custom Letter Necklace
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During the Democratic National Convention, we all watched Michelle Obama give her powerful speech – but not without spotting her dainty and very appropriate “VOTE” necklace. Lucky for you, there’s a dupe that you can customize to match the former First Lady!
No matter what you decide to wear to the polls, remember that fashion can be an incredible way to show support for the issues you care about. Whether it’s an all-white suit in honor of the suffrage movement or a simple “VOTE” hair clip, why not find a way to make a political statement through fashion this election season?