The potential impact of this year’s Presidential election has made it so that staying silent is no longer an option, or in style. Continuing our “V is for Vote” series that launched back in 2020, V returns with its latest edition as photography duo Inez & Vinoodh gathered 17 of the boldest American designers from our fashion community to tell us why voting to preserve democracy is the absolute most important thing you can do this season. Throw on that cerulean sweater and get ready, because V is hitting the polls!

“As a designer, I understand the power of influence, and voting is one of the most significant ways we can influence the direction our nation takes. I’m voting in the 2024 presidential election because our voices matter, especially in shaping the future of our country. It’s about standing up for what we believe in and ensuring that the issues that affect us and our communities are addressed. As someone in the women’s fashion industry, I believe in and support women’s empowerment and rights. I see firsthand the importance of sustainable practices, and the policies we vote for today will impact not only our environment but the future of the industry as well. That, and ensuring that everyone has the right to express themselves freely and access the health care they need are the issues close to my heart. I’m excited about the possibility of a future where equality, sustainability, and creativity are prioritized. To those voting for the first time, congratulations! This is such an empowering moment, and your vote does truly count. When I voted for the first time, it felt like I was stepping into a new level of responsibility and making my voice heard on a larger scale. Don’t take this opportunity lightly, use it to push for the change you want to see. Every vote contributes to the bigger picture, so be proud of this milestone and make it count! This election has the potential to bring about policies that support innovation and protect our rights. I’m hopeful that the outcome will reflect a collective desire for progress and that we’ll move closer to a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

LaQuan Smith

Ready To Vote? Make Your Plan!

Register to vote & check your registration status!

Whether you just turned 18 or it has been a while since you voted, it’s always best to check your registration status by clicking here. If you are ready to register as a first-time voter, take the exciting step here by clicking here.

See What’s On Your Ballot!

It’s always best to preview a list of candidates for Federal, State, and Local offices to understand who and what will be on your ballot in this upcoming election. To see what will appear on the ballot, click here.

Check your poll opening & closing times!

Remember, voting is your constitutional right, so on Election Day (November 5), find a time that works best for you as poll times vary by state and county, so check with your local polling station. 

Here’s what identification you should bring to VOTE!

Certain states hold strict voting laws about what sort of ID you need, as some require simple photo ID and some are more lenient, so double check to find your state’s guidelines on identification, and make sure to bring those with you on Election Day (November 5).

Wait Times & Other Issues

On Election Day (November 5), arriving early and checking wait times online is crucial to avoid waiting in line too long. But in the chance that the polls close while you are waiting in line, you still have a right to cast your ballot and make this known. If anyone tries to turn you away at the polls (or you witness anyone else attempting to discourage you or others from voting), you can report it to the Election Protection Hotline at 1-866-687-8683.

If there are any issues with your ballot, ask for help to fix any problem at the polls rather than leaving and coming back. Leaving or stepping out of your place in line could affect when you’re able to vote.

Not in town? Consider Absentee Voting!

To request your absentee ballot, you can complete this application online. Absentee ballot deadlines vary state by state, so double-check the deadlines, dates, and rules for your state when voting by mail.

This story appears in the pages of our upcoming V151 Winter 2024 issue: subscribe now to receive your copy before it hits newsstands in November!

Photography Inez & Vinoodh

Creative Director / Editor-in-Chief Stephen Gan

Production John Nadhazi / Michael Gleeson (VLM Productions)

Lighting director Jodokus Driessen (VLM Studio)

Studio Manager / Art Director Marc Kroop (VLM Studio)

Digital technician Brian Anderson

Location Pier59 Studios