AOC and Cori Bush Say They Thrift Their D.C. Looks – and Honestly That's a Good Thing

A relatable problem that doesn't get enough attention? Dressing professionally and sustainably on a budget. It's something Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez knows well after her win in 2018. Now that she has figured out some tips and tricks (and quite frankly, become known for her style) she's bestowing some advice to incoming Congress member Cori Bush.

On Twitter, the Missouri Congresswomen-elect posted a note about building her wardrobe for D.C. "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," she wrote. Then asked, "Should I do a fashion show?"

AOC jumped in quickly with the advice writing, "Thrifting, renting, and patience as you get your closet together sis. Capsule wardrobe will be your best friend." She then added a tip from fellow squad member Ayanna Pressley. "@AyannaPressley has the accessory game down. Good news is that all these practices are very sustainable and good for the planet!" she wrote.

For women in politics, fashion can be both a sense of empowerment and also the subject of sexist and classist scrutiny. Early on in AOC's first term, she was criticized by a journalist for wearing an outfit that didn't look it was worn by a girl "who struggles." Meanwhile, none of her male colleagues were attacked for what they were wearing.