The body of women in politics: an open problem

The victory of Silvia Salis in Genoa - former Olympic athlete and now the city's new mayor - has reignited an old pattern that resurfaces every time a woman steps decisively into a position of power. Despite her extensive experience in sports and institutions (she was Vice President of CONI and represented Italy in numerous official venues), Silvia Salis has been judged by many more for her appearance than for her résumé. As if being "too beautiful" were still, to this day, an obstacle to political credibility.

Too Beautiful to Be Taken Seriously: Women’s Bodies in Politics

It’s not the first time this happens. When a woman in politics is deemed physically attractive, the effect is often paradoxical: instead of being seen as an asset - as it usually is for men - it becomes a factor that clouds judgment of her merit. The underlying message is always the same: "She must be there for other reasons," "Who’s backing her?" or "It’s all about the image." Salis herself addressed this in a post-election interview, sharing how she’s often been underestimated because of her beauty, as though capability and appearance were incompatible. It's an outdated idea—but unfortunately, still very real. In Italy, and beyond.

Under the gaze: the body as a battleground

History teaches us that for women, the body is always political. In politics, even more so. Whether it’s jackets that are too colorful or skirts that are too short, every stylistic detail is scrutinized, as if a woman’s body must constantly justify its presence in power spaces. The truth is we also need to stop hiding. We must use our bodies, our personal style, and our determination as tools, and as vehicles. That’s exactly what Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez did in 2021, when the U.S. Democratic representative attended the Met Gala in a white dress designed by Aurora James, boldly emblazoned with the red words "Tax the rich."

Does dancing make you less authoritative?

Just a year later, in 2022, another case made headlines around the world: Sanna Marin, then Finland’s Prime Minister, was filmed dancing at a private party with friends. The video went viral, sparking polarized reactions, some defended her as "young and human," while others accused her of behaving inappropriately for her role. Yet when male leaders attend parties or engage in lighthearted moments, they're rarely accused of losing authority. Is it a coincidence that once again we’re talking about a beautiful woman? What’s clear is that the female body in politics is a minefield: too serious, and it's labeled cold; too free, and it’s seen as frivolous. Either way, political substance is overshadowed by judgment.

Fashion as a conscious (and monitored) act

Regardless of gender, personal style always communicates messages. Angela Merkel understood this well: her monochrome blazers became a kind of minimalist armor. No frills, no trends, just a consistent and reassuring uniform that projected pragmatism and stability. This strategy, though different in style, has deep roots among male politicians too. Think of John F. Kennedy, one of the first to understand how appearance could become central to crafting leadership. Perfectly tailored suits, neatly styled hair, strategic use of color and posture—Kennedy embodied an idea of modernity, efficiency, and charisma that extended into his wardrobe. He was among the first to harness the visual dimension of power, especially in the television age.

While Kennedy used elegance to amplify his image as a young visionary leader, Merkel did the opposite: she withdrew her body from the public narrative through repetitive and reassuring choices that became a message in themselves. Two extremes of the same principle: in politics, clothing always speaks. Unlike men, women can’t afford to get it wrong: every skirt is too short, every makeup look too bold, every style choice is read as vanity, frivolity, exposure. The same act, constructing an image, is rewarded in men and penalized in women.

We’re far from a solution, but the conversation is open

Even though we’re still far from true equality of perception, things are beginning to change. Social media, new communication platforms, and the growing focus on topics like body politics, gender stereotypes, and representation are opening up new spaces. Younger generations, more attuned to complexity and contradiction, allow these discussions to unfold with greater clarity. Talking about how women’s bodies are portrayed, judged, or politicized is no longer taboo: it’s a necessary step. While once dismissed as "aesthetic feminism," these conversations now hold space in the public debate. It’s not enough, but it’s a start.