Jill Biden has gained a reputation for being hesitant about her role in fashion, as she has expressed surprise at the amount of attention her clothing choices receive. Unlike Michelle Obama, who used fashion to bridge cultural gaps, or Melania Trump, who used high fashion as a political tool, Jill Biden has taken a different approach. Despite this, she showed during her solo trip to the Tokyo Olympics that there are many ways to make an impact, as she showcased American designers while abroad. She also embodied the theme of the Olympics, which was focused on being environmentally friendly with the motto "Be better, together — For the planet and the people." Biden wore only one new outfit during her trip to Japan, the Ralph Lauren navy jacket and pants, while the rest of her clothing was recycled from her closet, even at important public events. This outfit was worn while accompanying Anthony Fauci on a visit to a vaccination site in Florida in June. The floral Tom Ford outfit was worn to dinner with Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga of Japan and his wife Mariko. It was worn at the G-7 summit in Britain in July. The polka-dot Brandon Maxwell outfit was worn at the opening ceremony as well, along with the much-talked-about "Love" jacket. The white Michael Kors dress that was worn in Tokyo under a Team USA jacket had previously been seen at a G-7 appearance with a navy jacket when President Joe Biden and the first lady arrived in Britain. Even the lilac dress worn by Jill Biden in Honolulu during the last leg of the trip had been worn before. Recycling wardrobes may not seem significant, but it has been uncommon in the world of image-making, celebrities, and powerful political or entrepreneurial figures since the 21st century. The constant need for new content has typically been associated with new outfits, whether on the red carpet, at premieres, or at state events. It has been entertaining to observe and a fun distraction to guess the designer. However, it has also unintentionally strengthened the culture of disposable fashion that has contributed to the excess of material possessions that many people now lament. This has led to the belief that every occasion necessitates a new outfit. Biden's decision to break away from this trend is just as significant as her choice to continue working as a professor while serving in the White House. It is a move that could potentially have a significant impact if people take notice. Biden is not completely disregarding fashion, as each outfit she wears is part of the ongoing narrative of New York Fashion Week, showcasing both established and emerging American brands. By doing so, she is actively supporting local businesses on a global platform. Instead of constantly buying new clothes, she chooses to wear her clothes again to emphasize their worth. She believes that when you discover a piece of clothing that makes you feel confident and like your best self, you should hold onto it. If it made you feel that good once, it will continue to do so. This kind of clothing is worth investing in for the future and is not disposable. It is not just for others to see, but also for the woman wearing it. It is possible for anyone to do the same. This is a relatable experience, regardless of whether we are conscious of the sustainability aspect. It could be just a coincidence that she wore the same outfits multiple times. She was very busy leading up to the Olympics and may not have had time to carefully plan her wardrobe, simply choosing items from her closet. However, considering it was her first solo trip and with more attention on her, it seems unlikely that her outfit choices were purely coincidental, especially given the controversy surrounding the Olympics. Due to the pandemic restrictions causing a lack of audience members in the arena, Biden knew she would attract attention in the sparse crowd. Her words may not have been heard, but her outfit would definitely be noticed. Her reuse of styles, seen during various events in the first 100 days of her husband's administration, reflects the Biden agenda's focus on climate change. This trend may have reached its peak during this trip, indicating that it will become a defining aspect of Biden's time in the East Wing and how she approaches her role. If so, everyone benefits. Copyright 2021 The New York Times Company.