Ella Emhoff Redefines Second Daughter Style
Through her imperfect, purposefully unfinished style, the American model breathes fresh air into political fashion.
When you think of the stereotypical uniform of the daughter of a president or vice president, what comes to mind? You might think back to the 2004 classic First Daughter, in which Katie Holmes’ character donned refined double-breasted blazers and crisp tailored pants during the day and sweeping tulle ball gowns in the evening. However, the daughter of Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, Ella Emhoff, has subverted the stringent notion of polished perfection in the White House with her elevated-casual looks.
Emhoff, who recently graduated from Parsons School of Design, has mastered the grunge-meets-eccentric aesthetic. She has proudly adopted lightweight, breathable fabrics, raw hems, deliberately frayed edges, and the occasionally chunky black shoe into her attire, embracing a nonchalant attitude.
The IMG model has kept things relaxed yet decidedly cool throughout her public appearances, whether it's fashion week or a casual outing in New York City. “I’m someone who’s really passionate about comfort,” she told the New York Times. To create a chic look that does not compromise comfort, she often dabbles in proportion games. For instance, one night out, she wore an oversized denim jacket and jeans with a loose barrel silhouette to create a distressed, lived-in finish. In another instance, at her eye-catching 2021 Met Gala appearance, Emhoff wore a recycled Stella McCartney by Adidas siren-red diamond mesh bodysuit with paper bag trousers, underscoring her focus on ease when it comes to fashion. When she wants to achieve a more traditionally feminine style, she often dons softly structured dresses that incorporate fun trimming or play on symmetry, while maintaining an effortless feel.
Emhoff, who has designed her own knitwear collection, keenly understands the art of color-blocking and how to bring an outfit to life. She has sported a textural layered top with striking multicolor stripes to add a subtle quirkiness to an otherwise sophisticated ensemble. With her many monochromatic looks, she will add a pop of color to add balance and keep the outfit grounded.
Emhoff’s unconventionally playful and ultra-cool yet approachable style will undoubtedly continue to turn heads. Here are some of her standout looks so far.
