Gen Z Lawmakers Buck Tradition with Relaxed Clothing Choices

Many young, recently elected politicians aim to appear authentic through their casual clothing choices, like Doc Martens shoes and bomber jackets.

Some formal dress codes, like in the U.S. Senate and Missouri House, persist but have relaxed over time.

Gen Z lawmakers say mixing colors/patterns and avoiding ties and jackets makes them stand out from tradition-focused older colleagues.

Organizations advise young candidates to dress sharply but express themselves, balancing professionalism and authenticity.

More veteran lawmakers like Fetterman and Whitmer have also adopted relaxed styles, reflecting a broader shift beyond Gen Z.