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As the political landscape in the United States continues to evolve, a new fashion phenomenon is capturing the attention of supporters of former President Donald Trump: bedazzled bomber jackets. These sparkling garments, often adorned with slogans that resonate with the MAGA movement, are fast becoming a staple among loyalists, thanks largely to the creative efforts of a grandmother from Iowa.
A Glimmering Statement of Support
The trend of sequinned bomber jackets has been gaining traction, with notable figures in the Republican party prominently showcasing these eye-catching pieces. Education Secretary Linda McMahon recently donned a vibrant red jacket emblazoned with “MEGA” — a nod to “Make Education Great Again.” Similarly, during a rally at Madison Square Garden in October 2024, former Trump attorney Alina Habba sported a black sequined coat inscribed with “MAGA,” while Iowa’s Governor Kim Reynolds has frequently been spotted in her own flashy versions.
These jackets are not merely fashion statements; they are emblematic of a cultural shift within the MAGA community. The Washington Post highlighted that one woman, Deborah Yanna, has been pivotal in this movement. Based in Des Moines, Yanna runs a custom clothing line aptly named “Make America Sparkle Again.” Her designs have resonated deeply with the MAGA base, transforming her from a hobbyist into a business owner almost overnight.
From Convention to Commerce
Yanna’s journey into the world of political fashion began unexpectedly at the Republican National Convention, where she attracted attention for her sequined jacket featuring the words “IOWA FOR TRUMP” in bold, varsity-style lettering. The jacket’s popularity among fellow attendees, including Governor Reynolds, spurred Yanna to take her passion for design to the next level. Following encouragement from her peers, she expanded her online business into a physical store in Iowa, where she offers a range of apparel featuring slogans like “Golden Age of America” and “You Had Me at MAGA.”
Her influence has become so pronounced that even Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika, drew inquiries about whether Yanna had crafted her sequined outfit during a recent appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest. The growing visibility of these jackets at high-profile events underscores a broader trend that transcends mere aesthetics.
The Power of Sequins in Political Theatre
Krisdee Clark, the 2022 Mrs. American, recalls first encountering Yanna’s creations at the Conservative Political Action Conference. Since then, she has amassed a collection of four jackets, each bearing slogans that capture the spirit of the MAGA movement. Heather Akou, a fashion historian at Indiana University, notes that sequins are often associated with performance and spectacle, suggesting that their usage in political contexts is no accident. “There is a very high degree to which this is all a lot of political theatre,” she remarked, emphasising the theatricality inherent in political expression.
Yanna herself welcomes inclusivity in her designs, stating, “If you would like a jacket, I would love to make you one. I don’t care what side you’re on.” This open invitation reflects a desire to engage a wider audience, transcending partisan lines through the universal language of fashion.
Why it Matters
The rise of bedazzled bomber jackets among MAGA supporters illustrates how fashion can serve as a powerful vehicle for political expression. As political affiliations become increasingly intertwined with personal identity, these sequinned garments provide a means for individuals to communicate their beliefs in a visually striking way. This trend not only highlights the intersection of politics and culture but also signals a broader movement towards self-expression within political communities. As more supporters embrace this flamboyant style, it may reshape how political fashion is perceived and adopted in the future, blending activism with artistry in a uniquely American fashion statement.
