Politics and fashion are cut from the same cloth.

After all, we watch fashion shows like we watch debates, paparazzi photograph politicians as if they’re celebrities and trends seem to circulate based on what’s hot right now, when really it’s just a refreshing past ideas.

It’s  commonly believed that in order to gain success, one must dress for it. So how does one dress when hoping to become the successful presidential candidate of the United States?

Though politics and fashion are indeed similar, fashion is flashy where politics is not.

In order for democracy to put itself apart from a popularity contest, politicians must choose their fashion statements wisely. In the political fashion arena, tasteful tradition takes the lead.

Though politicians often preach messages that relate to tight-budget families, their wardrobe choices are often far from frugal. But for politicians it’s a tough choice.

They opt to gain respect from high power voters that recognize high fashion, rather then worry about middle class voters, who probably can’t tell it’s a $12,000 jacket.

Sec. Hillary Clinton, who’s been in the national spotlight since she served as first lady in 1993, has gone through style evolution to help with her campaign.

Pantsuits are a staple for the mature women in politics. Clinton is often seen wearing Ralph Lauren pantsuits that have stand-out details, such as a tweed jackets or large detailed buttons. She pairs the pantsuits with high fashion accessories like Chanel pins and Manolo Blahnik heels.

Though fashion coverage typically centers around women, male political figures are not wearing suits off the discount rack. They often rack up as expensive of a wardrobe as their female counterparts.

According to an article on Business of Fashion, Donald Trump is often seen wearing Brioni suits that retail for $5,250 to $6,900.

The other factor discussed in a male president’s fashion is if the items are made in America. Business and Fashion reported that president Barack Obama usually wears suits tailored Martin Greenfield, whose suits cost around $2,000.

Women in the White House have given us much more to talk about. First Lady Michelle Obama has come to be known as a style icon, landing herself two Vogue covers while she’s helped her husband lead the country.

As we say goodbye to Michelle as the First Lady, we say goodbye to eight years of wonderful fashion. Most recently, Michelle has dazzled in a shimmering rose-gold Versace gown at the Obama’s final state dinner.

Versace is one among many famous designers that Michelle has worn for her couture gowns. She’s turned heads wearing Givenchy, Vera Wang and Michael Kors.

First Lady style cannot be discussed without mentioning Jackie Kennedy, who, with unmatched grace and trend-setting looks, could go down in history as the most iconic first lady.

Her signature look of a tailored skirt, white gloves and the pill-box hat has since been titled, “the Jackie,” and has set the bar up high for future first ladies.

These stylish and brilliant famous first ladies prove that running the country can – and should – be done while wearing the best of couture.