New York Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar Dazzles on the Runway at “Style Across the Aisle”: The city was buzzing on Wednesday night as Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar lit up the runway at Style Across the Aisle, an annual showcase that bridges the worlds of fashion, politics, and culture. The event drew a packed crowd and highlighted the creativity of emerging New York designers.
A Historic First with a Cultural Tribute
Rajkumar, the first Indian American woman elected to New York State Office, turned heads in a vibrant outfit designed by Soara, a rising label founded by Surya Garg, the daughter of Indian-American immigrants.
The dress, which Rajkumar named Rajkumari—meaning “princess” in Hindi—paid homage to both her South Asian roots and the vibrancy of New York’s Indian American community.
As she stepped onto the runway, hundreds of attendees erupted in applause.
Rajkumar later reflected, “I walk the runway every day on the streets of New York, and this week I did it on a bigger stage. Just as fashion is about expressing identity and confidence, my role in public service is about empowering every New Yorker to stand tall and proud.”
Fashion Meets Public Service
Style Across the Aisle has become a signature event of New York Fashion Week, pairing political leaders with local designers. Since its inception, the show has raised more than $75,000 for charity, celebrating small business, diversity, and unity across political and cultural lines.
Founded by Skye Ostreicher, New York’s own “Political Personality,” the event seeks to humanize leaders while showcasing local talent. “By elevating small businesses alongside civic leaders, we’re proving that true style transcends party lines,” Ostreicher explained.
Looking Ahead
The long-term vision of Style Across the Aisle extends beyond New York. Organizers hope to one day bring the showcase to the White House, where elected officials would model creations from their home states, symbolizing bipartisanship and national unity through fashion.
Rajkumar, for her part, remains focused on her public service. When asked about rumors of a full-time fashion career in Paris, she smiled but declined to comment.
For now, the Assemblywoman continues to shine on two runways—one in politics, the other in fashion—demonstrating that confidence, leadership, and creativity truly walk hand in hand.
