TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Legislator Rosalia Wu (吳思瑤) on Friday (May 31) challenged the conventional dress code at the Legislative Yuan, emphasizing the importance of practicality over formality in legislative duties.
Wu's remarks came after Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) had, the previous Friday, urged legislators to dress more formally, specifically advising against jeans and sneakers.
Dress Code Debate
Wu apologized to Han before a questioning session on Friday morning for not adhering to the dress code by wearing white sneakers. She justified her choice by referencing her long-standing efforts in the Education and Culture Committee to liberalize school dress codes and defend bodily autonomy.
Wu, also credited as a driving force behind Taipei Fashion Week, argued that Taiwan's fashion, including sporty styles and white sneakers, represents the nation's soft power and offers a comfortable yet elegant choice for contemporary women. Her statement was met with applause from those present.
Wu clarified her stance: "A legislator comes to the Legislative Yuan to ask questions on political affairs, not to dine in a fine Western restaurant." This direct approach highlights a practical perspective on legislators' attire, suggesting that the effectiveness of their work in the legislature is of greater importance than their outward appearance.
Wu's comments have sparked a broader discussion on the balance between formality and functionality within the Legislative Yuan, potentially influencing future dress code policies and the cultural expectations of political figures in Taiwan.
