Jewelry on the Campaign Trail

Historically, most political candidates or their female spouses have opted for conservative jewelry. Pearls were always regarded as "safe" styles that created a nice backdrop without attracting too much attention (or giving the appearance of wealth).

Pearls are still popular, but the standard fare, cultured variety isn't the only type around necks in the 2008 US Presidential campaign. Keep an eye on Michelle Obama and you'll see she's fond of very large, faux pearls. Cindy McCain wears them too, but sometimes switches to other types of large beads. Both seem to have similar tastes in necklaces, but vast differences in the rest of their attire would give each woman a completely different look even if they wore identical pieces.

Hillary Clinton sometimes wears trendy pieces that soften her appearance, like the multi-strand necklaces in this gallery.

Sarah Palin keeps her jewelry very simple. Jill Biden sticks with pearls or other classic pieces.