Kamala Harris's Signature Pearls Make a Special Appearance During the Vice Presidential Debate

For one of the most important events of her campaign, Kamala Harris reached for her trusty pearls to face off in the first and only vice presidential debate on Oct. 7. While she kept things simple with her black pantsuit, the senator wore a strand of sparkly pearls with turquoise details and matching earrings, proving once again that she keeps it real when it comes to her looks.

We all know politicians are scrutinized for the messages they convey through their clothing, but Kamala's look isn't complicated. She wears Converse sneakers when she wants to because they're functional and comfortable, and they allow her to move quickly and get sh*t done when she's on the campaign trail. She paints a bold backdrop behind the messages she delivers in her power colors and sensible pearls, too, just because she likes them. Of course, the necklace is timeless, and a sophisticated choice at that, when the majority of Kamala's wardrobe falls into the workwear category.

But Kamala doesn't just stick to one strand of pearls. She has curated an impressive collection over the years — starting with the elegant choker she wore for her Howard University graduation photo in 1986. Kamala has shared this image across her social platforms, causing many people to make the connection to her personal style, and also the sorority she joined, Alpha Kappa Alpha, which is the first Black Greek-letter sorority that refers to its members as the "Twenty Pearls." By making the pearl necklace a seamless part of her uniform, and swapping out her favorite iterations depending on her outfit, she's not just participating in fashion or acknowledging trends, she's both defining her authentic taste and staying true to who she is and the history that's ingrained in her.

Kamala clearly treasures her pearls. Most importantly, she wears them in a way that's relatable — throwing them on when they look good and flow with the rest of her ensemble, and not necessarily when they stand out to make an intentional statement. Maybe that's why we keep our eyes peeled for them whenever she steps out to make a speech or greet a crowd — Kamala's pearls are also a beautiful sign of comfort.