This article explores the concept of 'hair certainty,' arguing that a politician's hairstyle and its perceived authenticity significantly impact public perception and political success, contrasting figures like Donald Trump and Keir Starmer.
The article delves into the concept of 'hair certainty,' coined by writer Simon Doonan, which suggests that a politician's hair, if authentic and 'what it appears to be,' can profoundly influence their public image and political prospects. Labour's current image issues, including being seen as 'dishonest,' are partly attributed to a lack of this 'hair certainty' from its leadership. Doonan initially dismissed Donald Trump's 'enigma' hair but later recognized its 'showbiz' certainty, likening it to Elvis's pompadour, which unexpectedly resonated with voters. Keir Starmer's hair, by contrast, is labeled 'unnoteworthy' and 'rigor mortised.' Experts like Rachael Gibson, 'The Hair Historian,' and image coach Lauren A Rothman emphasize hair as a vital form of nonverbal communication, conveying status, discipline, and building trust through consistent, intentional appearance. While not a guarantee of election, hair certainty can be a factor, as exemplified by Kamala Harris's hair, interpreted by some as a symbol of Black hair autonomy. The 'glossy Maga aesthetic' is highlighted as a driver of this trend, with Republican figures like Pete Hegseth and Tulsi Gabbard showcasing highly 'certain' and theatrical hairstyles that project discipline, virility, and an outsize populist brand. The piece notes a cultural distinction, with American politics embracing a more 'showbiz' approach compared to the UK's expectation of 'self-denying' politicians. However, the pervasive influence of media and social media is making political hair a global concern.
