In a remarkable fusion of fashion and politics, over a dozen of America’s leading designers have joined forces with the Democratic presidential campaign. This unique collaboration aims to amplify the candidate’s messaging and rally voters ahead of the pivotal November election.

Empowering a Vision for Democracy

Senior campaign advisor Meaghan Burdick articulates the core mission: “Vice President Harris and Governor Tim Walz are fighting for a future that strengthens our democracy, protects reproductive freedom, and ensures every person has the opportunity to not just get by, but to get ahead.” The Designers for Democracy initiative brings together a cohort of esteemed American designers committed to supporting this vision.

The 2024 Election Collection

Launching today, the collection spans from chic apparel to essential accessories, featuring creations by renowned names like Aurora James, Tory Burch, Prabal Gurung, Thom Browne, and Victor Glemaud. Among these, five designers—Ulla Johnson, Sergio Hudson, Willy Chavarria, Rachel Scott, and Bettina Benson—are making their debut in presidential campaign merch. This lineup joins familiar faces such as Brett Heyman, Vera Wang, and Joseph Altuzarra, who previously designed for Joe Biden’s “Believe in Better” 2020 campaign.

Design Inspirations

Each designer was tasked with embedding the themes of the Harris-Walz campaign into their designs. Aurora James, known for her work as creative director at Brother Vellies and founder of the Fifteen Percent Pledge, crafted two ribbed sock sets to advocate for reproductive rights and voting. Her T-shirt emblazoned with “America Is an Idea” captures this election year’s significance.

“The most important issue for me this fall is unity and compassion,” shares James. “For too long, people that look like me were made to feel that we didn’t belong here. But America belongs to all of us, equally.”

Shifting Support

Following President Biden’s announcement on July 21 regarding his decision not to seek reelection, designers swiftly pivoted to support Kamala Harris as the new nominee. James remarks, “I’m profoundly excited by the idea that we can have a broader range of human experience in the White House. I am a firm believer that an inclusive country is a stronger country.”

Unique Design Contributions

• Vera Wang and Willy Chavarria: Both designers put their unique spin on “Kamala Harris 2024” designs.
• Victor Glemaud and Bettina Benson: Created pieces spotlighting themes such as “We Are Not Going Back” and “We Chose Freedom.”
• Sergio Hudson and Jonathan Cohen: Both crafted impactful “VOTE” sweatshirts.
• Tory Burch: Designed a Vote Democracy tee, echoing her past contributions to campaign fashion.

Burch emphasizes the importance of participation in democracy: “Voting is an honor and a privilege, and democracy works best when everyone participates.”

The Collection: Accessible Fashion for Political Enthusiasts

With average prices under $50 and everything made in the U.S., this collection offers both fashion lovers and political enthusiasts a way to express their support. The range includes versatile pieces such as:

• Designers for Democracy x Aurora James socks
• Designers for Democracy x Prabal Gurung T-shirt
• Designers for Democracy x Thom Browne scarf
• Designers for Democracy x Tory Burch tote
• Designers for Democracy x Jonathan Cohen sweatshirt
• Designers for Democracy x Joseph Altuzarra tote

Why This Matters

This collaboration underscores the power of fashion as a platform for social and political advocacy. By merging style with substance, designers are not only creating beautiful pieces but also encouraging civic engagement and unity.

As we approach this significant election year, initiatives like Designers for Democracy remind us that everyone can play a role in shaping our nation’s future—be it through the ballot box or the clothes on our back.