Black Lives Matter activist Cori Bush scored a number of firsts when she won her race for Congress in Missouri on November 3.
The 44-year-old St. Louis native became the first Black congresswoman from the state of Missouri as Blavity previously reported. But like many new members of Congress lately, Bush has some tough decisions to make, including what to wear to Capitol Hill.
The reality of being a regular person going to Congress is that it’s really expensive to get the business clothes I need for the Hill. So I’m going thrift shopping tomorrow.
Should I do a fashion show? ⬇️
— Cori Bush (@CoriBush) November 11, 2020
Thankfully a few congresswomen gave her some expert advice on how to look congressional on a budget.
Cori, I still wear some of my maternity clothes under those blazers. ????????♀️
P.S. I get the most compliments from the clothes I got from thrift shops.
— Rashida Tlaib (@RashidaTlaib) November 11, 2020
Thrifting is the way to go, it also makes your look unique. @israhirsi & I do this often, it’s also where I get most of my jewelry.
Somali shops in my district have the best scarves on a budget, will get you some to spice up any wardrobe.
I specialize in $50 or less outfits ???? https://t.co/cxsftlekqm
— Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) November 11, 2020
Thrifting, renting, and patience as you get your closet together sis. Capsule wardrobe will be your best friend. @AyannaPressley has the accessory game down
Good news is that all these practices are very sustainable and good for the planet! ???? https://t.co/X4Cyy8HOwF
— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) November 11, 2020
AOC also added that Bush "can also thrift and buy second hand online, which helped me get higher quality, longer-lasting things that would normally be out of budget. Good luck!!"
Cori- look forward to serving with you. here’s a place i go to that’s near the Capitol in eastern market: https://t.co/KvmJy0wXeV
— Grace Meng (@Grace4NY) November 11, 2020
Great idea.
My trick is Rent the Runway for more posh outfits. Never have to wear the same outfit twice.
— Pam Keith (@PamKeithFL) November 11, 2020
Ayanna Pressley also chimed in to give make-up advice.
Also. @CoriBush for all those media hits, don't sleep on the lashes or HD make up products at CVS. Black Opal, NYX, Wet N Wild are the truth! pic.twitter.com/eAzR6L7ndm
— Ayanna Pressley (@AyannaPressley) November 11, 2020
Hundreds of others threw in ideas and some stores offered to style her for free. But one Twitter user noted that no matter what Bush wears, she will look like a congresswoman.
Whatever you wear is Congressional material, because you are a Congresswoman. You make your floor speech in nursing scrubs and clerical collar, and I'll get my kids and tell them, "That's what a Congressperson looks like doing her job."
— Irami Osei-Frimpong (@IramiOF) November 11, 2020
Historically, many people only run for Congress if they are wealthy enough to afford a lengthy, costly campaign.
But this latest wave of working class congresspeople has highlighted just how difficult it is to be a House Representative without a fat bank account.
Ultimately, fashion brand Eloquii stepped up to offer their services.
Hi Congresswoman-elect Bush. We would absolutely LOVE to dress you!
— ELOQUII (@ELOQUII) November 11, 2020
We can't wait to see what Bush wears for her first session!
