Designers for Democracy: Our Personal Picks!

How are we prepping for tonight’s Presidential debate? By shopping, of course!

We love supporting a candidate by wearing their official merchandise, but the average campaign t-shirt or hat can be bland. Imagine our delight when Designers for Democracy dropped in the Harris/Walz official store! What is Designers for Democracy, you ask? This year, 16 designers have partnered with the Democratic presidential campaign to create unique, tasteful items that embody the campaign’s vision.

All items are available to pre-order, with an expected release date of October 1!

At first, we thought picking just one item for each of us would be impossible. However, it soon became apparent that a singular item called each of our names. (It did help that a specific item we all would have wanted was almost sold out!) Below, you’ll find our chosen items styled and ready to wear. Take inspiration from us, or get creative and style a unique look with something from Designers for Democracy. We promise to photograph our styled looks when our items arrive! We hope you will, too.

Get your shopping done before the debate tonight on ABC at 9 p.m. (coverage begins at 8 p.m.)!

Lani’s Look

When I discovered that the floral Ulla Johnson hoodie was already sold out in my size, it was clear the Aurora James retro pocket t-shirt was my fashion fate. With a vintage-inspired vibe, I’ll be styling my t-shirt with a pair of wide-leg jeans similar to these and a cute vintage navy jacket. (A similar product is pictured below from Sézane.) To complete the look, I would desperately love to have the Maison Margiela Tabi Block Heel Mary Jane Mules, but who am I kidding? I’ll likely be running around in my New Balance fashion sneakers instead. Need a sneaker option to complete your campaign merch ensemble? Check out our recent Your Guide to the Best Sneakers post!

Aurora James America is an Idea Retro Pocket T-shirt, $55
Sézane Navy Crochet Betty Cardigan, $170
Paige Anessa Wide Leg Jeans, $239
What I’d love to wear: Maison Margiela Tabi Block Heel Mary Jane Mules, $1,120
What I’ll actually be wearing: New Balance Women’s 327, $100

Kyle’s Pink Passion

It was an absolute no-brainer which item from the Designers for Democracy collection I would choose. It’s like the Gabriela Hearst sweatshirt was made for me. However, it is difficult not to get the hat to wear on my walks with Daisy!

I’m pairing my sweatshirt with a comfortable but polished oversized blazer, my favorite stovepipe jeans and a simple gold hoop. I have included the gold infinity hoop below from our favorite jewelry designer at A Stone’s Throw, but any gold hoop will work! Finally, I’m tying my look together with these insanely cute and comfortable pink Camper loafers. They’re so much fun and perfectly complete the casual yet cultivated look I’m going for.

Gabriela Hearst Sweatshirt, $85
Re/Done Comfort Stretch High Rise Stove Pipe Jeans, $275
Everlane The Oversized Blazer in Buttersmooth, $198
A Stone’s Throw Infinity Hoops, $62
Camper Milah Loafers, $119

Sloane’s Style

For those of you who have yet to meet me, Hi! I’m Sloane. I’ve been working with Lani and Kyle for a little over a year now (minus a maternity leave.) When Lani mentioned doing a Designers for Democracy post, I couldn’t pass up styling a look with the Willy Chavarria Kamala Sweatshirt. As a new mom, anything washable, comfortable, and effortlessly cute is my go-to these days. I’ll style the sweatshirt with a simple straight-leg cropped jean and Everlane sneakers. Considering my child is currently in the pulling hair/earrings/anything she can get her hands on phase, I’m accessorizing with a simple bandana in my hair and a stud earring similar to the Quince version pictured below. I hope my daughter James (same name as Lani’s son!) will see the inauguration of the first woman president before she turns 1!

Willy Chavarria Kamala Sweatshirt, $85
AG Saige Ankle Straight Leg Jeans, $245
Chan Luu Daisy Embroidered Scarf, $40
Quince Silver Pyramid Studs, $35
Everlane The Court Sneaker, $130

We can’t wait to see which Designers for Democracy pieces you choose! Let us know in the comments below. Also, a reminder to tune in to the debate tonight on ABC at 9 p.m. (coverage begins at 8 p.m.). And just for fun, print these debate bingo cards and play while you watch!



Real Life Style is a style consulting firm that teaches busy women to wear their power so they can live their lives fully and confidently. Lani Inlander, Kyle Dunphy and Sloane True are based in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and serve clients nationwide. We offer personal styling services, and an on-demand e-course.

Once in a while, you can find Lani Inlander and Real Life Style on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Instagram. Mostly, they are happily busy serving their fabulous clients, not hanging out online!