The Top 5 Most Stylish Male Members of Congress
Politics can be messy, but fashion doesn’t need to follow suit.
TroibNews 
Queen Victoria once cautioned her son, the future Edward VII, that public figures should avoid wearing anything “extravagant or slang,” to prevent drawing unwanted attention. Most current and former members of Congress heed her advice, but those who disregard it often find themselves in embarrassing situations: Marco Rubio teetering back to his tour bus in Cuban heels, John Fetterman walking through Congress dressed in gym attire, and Ron DeSantis cramming into cowboy boots rumored to conceal height-boosting lifts.
Congress isn’t particularly celebrated for its fashion sense, and when its attire becomes a topic of discussion, it's usually due to a misstep. Nevertheless, there are standout members from both parties who manage to dress well without attracting ridicule. Prior to his retirement, Sen. Mitt Romney was among the most elegantly dressed men in Washington. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has consistently showcased her fashion acumen, using clothing as a political statement, a topic she has discussed on her Instagram account.
There is clearly potential for a better-dressed Congress—even if it isn’t necessarily more functional. A select group of current members is demonstrating this possibility. This article spotlights some of the most fashionable individuals in an institution often deemed America's least stylish. While many of Congress' best-dressed members are women, this piece will focus specifically on the men. Here are five of the most stylish guys in Congress.
### Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse
Brooks Brothers set the standard for classic American tailoring with their natural-shouldered sack suits and oxford-cloth button-down shirts at the start of the 20th century. However, this aesthetic has mostly faded from Congress, replaced by President Donald Trump’s 1980s power suits and the snug jackets and slim-fit chinos favored by younger staffers. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse stands out as one of the few who still adheres to this traditional standard. A Yale graduate and descendant of Central Pacific Railroad tycoon Charles Crocker, Whitehouse’s style is understated and patrician, reminiscent of a golden era in American menswear. His suits feature moderate padding and sensible lapel widths, accompanied by ties with subtle patterns tied in a classic four-in-hand knot. His signature detail—a button-down collar—places him among those who appreciate this country's sartorial history. In contrast to most modern versions that appear apologetic, Whitehouse opts for a classic, unlined collar that provides a natural ease and graceful curves. In a time when American tailoring has faded into obscurity, Whitehouse emerges as a steadfast torchbearer.
### Speaker Mike Johnson
Rep. Mike Johnson could have attained the speakership based on style alone. He embodies the quintessential Republican aesthetic, complete with a crisp side part, dark tortoiseshell glasses, and impeccable tailoring. Johnson resembles a more mature version of Alex P. Keaton, marked by classic cuts that convey restraint, reliability, and Reagan-era dignity. His jackets feature just enough shoulder padding for presence without compromising comfort, and his lapels find the perfect balance—neither too wide nor narrow. The speaker is adept with proportions; his jackets are tailored to bisect him at a flattering point, crafting a V-shaped silhouette. His shirt collars are subtly proportioned to tuck easily underneath his jacket, presenting an unbroken line that frames his face.
Importantly, Johnson understands what to avoid. He stays clear of distracting elements like contrasting buttonholes and inappropriate footwear, which can undermine outfit cohesion. Yet, he personalizes his style amid an often-conformist environment. Bypassing the standard dark blue or grey worsteds of Washington, he chooses subtle checks and enhances his attire with tasteful details such as French-cuff shirts adorned with cufflinks. Johnson exemplifies how one can make nuanced style choices while remaining firmly within conservative business attire.
### Sen. Raphael Warnock
In Washington, the standard for men’s styling is so low that even properly hemmed trousers can raise you into the ranks of the city’s best-dressed. However, Sen. Raphael Warnock exceeds those basics. At the 2023 Celebration Bowl in Atlanta, he presented a look reminiscent of a Ralph Lauren campaign, layering a pink checked shirt, a burgundy quilted vest, and a Polo Bear sweater from the brand’s Morehouse collection—an homage to his alma mater. During Seersucker Thursday, a day steeped in Southern charm, Warnock not only fits in but stands out. While many wear seersucker suits with notch lapels, Warnock elevates the look with a peak lapel—an unexpected twist that showcases his confident style. He also understands the importance of pairing a single-breasted dinner jacket with a waist cover, arriving at black-tie events with a cummerbund. Even when eschewing a tie—one of the few opportunities for color or pattern—he ensures his outfit remains intentional, opting for relaxed shirts like dark blue button-ups or subtle checks. In a political landscape where dressing too well may attract unwarranted attention, Warnock navigates the balance perfectly, embodying style without distraction.
### Sen. John Thune
In men’s tailoring, even minute differences can have significant effects. It’s impressive, then, that Sen. John Thune, the imposing Republican Majority Leader, ranks among Congress's best-dressed men. Standing at 6’4”, the former collegiate basketball player often struggles with off-the-rack clothing, even in long sizes. Still, his tailoring is exceptionally executed, steering clear of the common pitfalls seen in modern business attire. His jackets fit snugly through the shoulders while avoiding the misfortunate sleeve head divots characteristic of tight fits. His trousers are tailored to prevent shirt exposure beneath the buttoning point and feature a fuller cut that drapes smoothly without clinging. Most importantly, his jackets are long enough for complete coverage, allowing the button placement to sit at his natural waist—creating a balanced and flattering V-shaped silhouette. Thune illustrates that great tailoring is a matter of detail rather than body type. If he wishes to promote bipartisanship, he might consider sliding his tailor’s card under Sen. John Fetterman’s office door.
### Sen. Bernie Sanders
Sen. Bernie Sanders is unlikely to grace the cover of Vogue, but for those who perceive fashion as more than mere runways and red carpets, he possesses a unique stylish quality rooted in authenticity rather than tradition. His appearance is unmistakable, reminiscent of silver-haired gentlemen from Manhattan’s Upper East Side, donning mustard-stained button-ups and floppy hats; ink-stained academics in baggy corduroys and worn sweaters; and older Vermonters in rumpled blazers that haven't seen a dry cleaner in years. Sanders embodies this archetype. His suits have a slightly oversized fit, his clothing is perpetually wrinkled, and his ties are often askew. Yet, somehow, it works because his style tells a story. It conveys seriousness while remaining unpretentious, signaling that he wears a senator's uniform without being consumed by the trappings of power. His disheveled attire suggests a man focused on larger issues. This blend of detachment and a carefree vibe epitomizes coolness. Unlike Fetterman, whose gym attire can feel like a contrived representation of working-class grit, Sanders looks sincere in his style. His rumpled suits—a reflection of himself and his firm Brooklyn accent—resonate with an earlier generation of New York intellectuals who, despite their unpolished appearances, held authority and authenticity. He channels that essence. In a political world rife with performative gestures, there’s something refreshing about a man whose style, akin to his convictions, has remained steadfast for decades.
*Photos: Whitehouse: Photo by Tom Williams-Pool/Getty Images; Kent Nishimura/Getty Images; Johnson: Kent Nishimura/Getty Images ; Warnock: Anna Rose Layden/Getty Images; Itoro N.*
Mathilde Moreau contributed to this report for TROIB News
Congress isn’t particularly celebrated for its fashion sense, and when its attire becomes a topic of discussion, it's usually due to a misstep. Nevertheless, there are standout members from both parties who manage to dress well without attracting ridicule. Prior to his retirement, Sen. Mitt Romney was among the most elegantly dressed men in Washington. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has consistently showcased her fashion acumen, using clothing as a political statement, a topic she has discussed on her Instagram account.
There is clearly potential for a better-dressed Congress—even if it isn’t necessarily more functional. A select group of current members is demonstrating this possibility. This article spotlights some of the most fashionable individuals in an institution often deemed America's least stylish. While many of Congress' best-dressed members are women, this piece will focus specifically on the men. Here are five of the most stylish guys in Congress.
### Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse
Brooks Brothers set the standard for classic American tailoring with their natural-shouldered sack suits and oxford-cloth button-down shirts at the start of the 20th century. However, this aesthetic has mostly faded from Congress, replaced by President Donald Trump’s 1980s power suits and the snug jackets and slim-fit chinos favored by younger staffers. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse stands out as one of the few who still adheres to this traditional standard. A Yale graduate and descendant of Central Pacific Railroad tycoon Charles Crocker, Whitehouse’s style is understated and patrician, reminiscent of a golden era in American menswear. His suits feature moderate padding and sensible lapel widths, accompanied by ties with subtle patterns tied in a classic four-in-hand knot. His signature detail—a button-down collar—places him among those who appreciate this country's sartorial history. In contrast to most modern versions that appear apologetic, Whitehouse opts for a classic, unlined collar that provides a natural ease and graceful curves. In a time when American tailoring has faded into obscurity, Whitehouse emerges as a steadfast torchbearer.
### Speaker Mike Johnson
Rep. Mike Johnson could have attained the speakership based on style alone. He embodies the quintessential Republican aesthetic, complete with a crisp side part, dark tortoiseshell glasses, and impeccable tailoring. Johnson resembles a more mature version of Alex P. Keaton, marked by classic cuts that convey restraint, reliability, and Reagan-era dignity. His jackets feature just enough shoulder padding for presence without compromising comfort, and his lapels find the perfect balance—neither too wide nor narrow. The speaker is adept with proportions; his jackets are tailored to bisect him at a flattering point, crafting a V-shaped silhouette. His shirt collars are subtly proportioned to tuck easily underneath his jacket, presenting an unbroken line that frames his face.
Importantly, Johnson understands what to avoid. He stays clear of distracting elements like contrasting buttonholes and inappropriate footwear, which can undermine outfit cohesion. Yet, he personalizes his style amid an often-conformist environment. Bypassing the standard dark blue or grey worsteds of Washington, he chooses subtle checks and enhances his attire with tasteful details such as French-cuff shirts adorned with cufflinks. Johnson exemplifies how one can make nuanced style choices while remaining firmly within conservative business attire.
### Sen. Raphael Warnock
In Washington, the standard for men’s styling is so low that even properly hemmed trousers can raise you into the ranks of the city’s best-dressed. However, Sen. Raphael Warnock exceeds those basics. At the 2023 Celebration Bowl in Atlanta, he presented a look reminiscent of a Ralph Lauren campaign, layering a pink checked shirt, a burgundy quilted vest, and a Polo Bear sweater from the brand’s Morehouse collection—an homage to his alma mater. During Seersucker Thursday, a day steeped in Southern charm, Warnock not only fits in but stands out. While many wear seersucker suits with notch lapels, Warnock elevates the look with a peak lapel—an unexpected twist that showcases his confident style. He also understands the importance of pairing a single-breasted dinner jacket with a waist cover, arriving at black-tie events with a cummerbund. Even when eschewing a tie—one of the few opportunities for color or pattern—he ensures his outfit remains intentional, opting for relaxed shirts like dark blue button-ups or subtle checks. In a political landscape where dressing too well may attract unwarranted attention, Warnock navigates the balance perfectly, embodying style without distraction.
### Sen. John Thune
In men’s tailoring, even minute differences can have significant effects. It’s impressive, then, that Sen. John Thune, the imposing Republican Majority Leader, ranks among Congress's best-dressed men. Standing at 6’4”, the former collegiate basketball player often struggles with off-the-rack clothing, even in long sizes. Still, his tailoring is exceptionally executed, steering clear of the common pitfalls seen in modern business attire. His jackets fit snugly through the shoulders while avoiding the misfortunate sleeve head divots characteristic of tight fits. His trousers are tailored to prevent shirt exposure beneath the buttoning point and feature a fuller cut that drapes smoothly without clinging. Most importantly, his jackets are long enough for complete coverage, allowing the button placement to sit at his natural waist—creating a balanced and flattering V-shaped silhouette. Thune illustrates that great tailoring is a matter of detail rather than body type. If he wishes to promote bipartisanship, he might consider sliding his tailor’s card under Sen. John Fetterman’s office door.
### Sen. Bernie Sanders
Sen. Bernie Sanders is unlikely to grace the cover of Vogue, but for those who perceive fashion as more than mere runways and red carpets, he possesses a unique stylish quality rooted in authenticity rather than tradition. His appearance is unmistakable, reminiscent of silver-haired gentlemen from Manhattan’s Upper East Side, donning mustard-stained button-ups and floppy hats; ink-stained academics in baggy corduroys and worn sweaters; and older Vermonters in rumpled blazers that haven't seen a dry cleaner in years. Sanders embodies this archetype. His suits have a slightly oversized fit, his clothing is perpetually wrinkled, and his ties are often askew. Yet, somehow, it works because his style tells a story. It conveys seriousness while remaining unpretentious, signaling that he wears a senator's uniform without being consumed by the trappings of power. His disheveled attire suggests a man focused on larger issues. This blend of detachment and a carefree vibe epitomizes coolness. Unlike Fetterman, whose gym attire can feel like a contrived representation of working-class grit, Sanders looks sincere in his style. His rumpled suits—a reflection of himself and his firm Brooklyn accent—resonate with an earlier generation of New York intellectuals who, despite their unpolished appearances, held authority and authenticity. He channels that essence. In a political world rife with performative gestures, there’s something refreshing about a man whose style, akin to his convictions, has remained steadfast for decades.
*Photos: Whitehouse: Photo by Tom Williams-Pool/Getty Images; Kent Nishimura/Getty Images; Johnson: Kent Nishimura/Getty Images ; Warnock: Anna Rose Layden/Getty Images; Itoro N.*
Mathilde Moreau contributed to this report for TROIB News
