Tensions have been high in the US ever since the 2016 election. Our country is more divided than ever, yet, at the same time, more motivated than ever. No matter what your specific values are or where you live, being an active voter is incredibly important to our democracy. It may seem hopeless at times, to move systems to change, but your voice does matter! The midterm elections are being held on November 6th and could potentially change the tides of our current establishment. Are you registered to vote? Do you know who’s running in your district? Are you aware of where your nearest polling place is? An act which should be so simple has become complicated today and can seem incredibly overwhelming, however, there’s reason to rejoice. Websites like Vote.org and Vote Save America make it easy for you to complete your civic duty this Fall! Visit these sites and get answers before the elections, so you can wear your “I Voted” sticker with pride.
Now that you’ve registered and researched, it’s time to roll up to the polls in style! We celebrate our country every year in July, though I would argue that the best way to commemorate our independence is to get out there and exercise our collective right to vote. Get in the spirit with six shirts we’ve picked out to keep you feeling patriotic—make America vote again!
If you’re feeling fancy…
There’s nothing like a good history lesson to get you in the patriotic spirit (well, not all the time...) The women’s suffrage movement, which culminated at the turn of the century, began gaining traction in England. To establish individuals as part of the larger group, suffragettes used three colors in their clothing and accessories: green, purple, and white. Green is a symbol of hope, purple is the color of royalty, and white represents purity. The women started wearing white dresses in order to combat the notion that the women had to seem like men in order to fight for their rights. After trying to fight the battle for equality, women’s suffrage focused their messaging on the strength of women’s uniqueness instead. For the 2018 midterms, channel your inner suffragette and participate in the act that so many fought for. Below are three shirts, representing the three colors of the suffragettes.
If you’re feeling casual…
Looking back at the past can help us gain new appreciation for the things we take for granted today. Another way to celebrate the free world is to participate in election day in full-casual glory. While there is a lot of debate right now about how free our country actually is, we can feel grateful for the fact that we can dress how we want, vote how we want, and speak our truth every day. Times may seem trying but we are so lucky to be able to be publicly outraged when things are unsatisfactory. Take advantage of our flag’s exciting colors and make a statement with red, white, or blue. However, you can’t forget the casual king that is denim. Though it’s not a color, this cotton fabric is in a category all its own, with a rich history, and versatile style. Below are three pieces to test out your right to great personal style.
Although current political turmoil can be disheartening, it’s important for us all to do our part because change is only possible when we work together. It’s corny, but true, that “it takes a village.” Thank you so much for continuing to be a part of our swapping village, we love having you around. On election day, we hope to see you all rocking your stickers and American pride! Make sure to snap a picture and tag us if you’re going to the polls in Swap Society style.
Audrey Stanton was born and raised in the Bay Area and is currently based in Los Angeles. She has attended the Fashion Institute of Technology, London College of Fashion, and received a BFA in costume design from the California Institute of the Arts. Audrey is deeply passionate about conscious fashion and hopes to continue to spread awareness and love for ethical consumption. Visit her blog audstant.com and follow her on Instagram for lots of #slowfashion inspiration!