Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States, recently appeared on her second Vogue cover, marking a distinct contrast from her first in both style and tone. Just weeks before the upcoming U.S. presidential election, Harris was featured as the digital cover star for Vogue’s October edition. This time, she was photographed wearing a sophisticated mocha-colored suit from Gabriela Hearst, paired with a plum satin blouse. Her pose, cross-legged in a chair upholstered in baby blue, exudes a composed and confident demeanor. She gazes directly into the camera, wearing her signature subtle smile.
Renowned fashion photographer Annie Leibovitz shot the image, which starkly differs from Harris’ first Vogue cover in 2021. In that earlier cover, which stirred significant controversy, Harris was captured standing in a casual stance, mid-laughter, wearing a Donald Deal jacket, black skinny jeans, and her well-known Converse sneakers. Many critics found the cover too informal, with some calling it “decidedly unfancy.” Harris’ team had reportedly expected a more polished photograph featuring her in a light blue suit against a gold background, which did appear inside the magazine but not on the cover.
The backlash over the first cover was widespread, with many on social media voicing disappointment. Vogue defended the choice, stating that the informal image was meant to reflect Harris’ authentic and approachable nature—qualities they believed resonated with the Biden-Harris administration.
In contrast, Harris’ second cover opts for a more formal presentation. Shot at the Redford Fire Department in Michigan, a state seen as pivotal in the upcoming election, the image projects professionalism and authority. The composition suggests the viewer is meeting Harris in an official capacity, perhaps to discuss matters of foreign policy. The tone is serious yet approachable, reflecting Harris’ experience and leadership.
While many have praised the cover for presenting Harris in a more authoritative light, there has been some criticism as well. Nigerian-British photographer Misan Harriman commented on Vogue’s Instagram post, suggesting that the magazine should offer such opportunities to talented Black women photographers. Leibovitz herself has faced criticism in the past for how she has portrayed Black and Brown subjects, with her recent shoot of Zendaya for Vogue drawing criticism for its lighting and the way it made Zendaya’s skin appear washed out.
For many of Harris’ supporters, this second cover is seen as a redemption, offering a more serious and respectful portrayal of the Vice President. The sleek suit and formal setting contrast sharply with her previous cover, signaling that Harris is now being taken more seriously in the public eye. The casual Converse sneakers and informal stance from her earlier cover are gone, replaced with a more polished and poised representation, fitting for someone in her position of power.
