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Election Day Wearable Winners

Photos from petsvote.com

The best-dressed pooches can pitch in on the political action with a doggie sweater that sells for $20.88.

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By CLOE CABRERA | The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 31, 2008

Blame it on democracy!

Whether they're standing their ground in slip-ons emblazoned with their preferred political party's mascot or sporting a ring proudly proclaiming support for presidential candidate John McCain or Barack Obama, voters can make a political statement and a fashion statement this year.

"I believe it is all about vote, vote, vote," says Finola Hughes, style expert and host of Style Network's "How Do I Look?" "People are proud that they have made a choice and want to share that, and ensure that others don't forget the value of their individual vote. The entire country is watching and involved. Fashion is always a quick way to communicate; I say this all the time."

Fashion allows people to speak their patriotic minds without saying a word, says Shapes magazine fashion director Amy Berlin.

"Because of the economic crisis, the war in Iraq, etc., people feel very strongly about the outcome of this election and are not afraid to let other people know how they feel," Berlin says.

RUMOR CONTROL: Contrary to what's being circulated in e-mails, Florida voters cannot be turned away from the polls for wearing their political choice on their sleeves, around their necks or on their feet. They just can't try to sway a fellow voter with their attire.

With the election only a couple of days away, here are some fashionable pieces you're likely to see at the polls:

Slip-ons

Voters will show a little sole at the polls with Toms khaki-canvas slip-ons; $45 at www.piperline.com. Available with a donkey or elephant party mascot. For every pair sold, Toms donates a pair to a child in need.

Obama T-shirt

Expect trendsetters to show up in this Obama T-shirt from French designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac's spring-summer ready-to-wear collection. Go to www.jc-de-castelbajac.com for a list of stores.

McCain Ring

Those who want to make McCain their presidential pick can give him a hand with this Hildalgo ring. It sells for $1,375; diamond guards are an extra $1,390. There is also a Democratic Party donkey, Republican Party pachyderm, Obama and Palin rings. But no Biden. For info, go to www.hidalgo.com.

And for those who are shy about showing their political leanings ...

Vote Ring

The vote ring by jeweler Renee Frances was inspired by Robert Indiana's iconic LOVE sculpture. It sells for $115 at www.reneefrances.com.

Scarf

This Karen Zambos vintage couture silk scarf is $108 at www.shopbop.com

Pooch Apparel

The best-dressed pooches can pitch in on the political action with a doggie sweater that sells for $20.88 at www.petsvote.com.

A portion of the sales of all tees benefits Arf Hamptons, the leading no-kill shelter on the eastern end of Long Island, N.Y.

Don't forget to vote Tuesday!

Cloe Cabrera can be reached at (813) 259-7656.

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