[img_assist|fid=2835|thumb=1|alt=pelosi suit|caption=courtesy of New York Times]
Here's an informal poll:

Do articles and quotes like this one, about the chic of political leaders like Speaker Nancy Pelosi, demean women in power, or burnish them?

Fashion authorities say Mrs. Pelosi should be applauded for her color choice (burgundy on Jan. 4, the day she was sworn in), her playfulness with jewelry (chunky, but tasteful, including signature Tahitian pearls) and her suit selection (from velvet to tweed), all of which can be imitated at a more affordable price by women who are not wealthy. Women are already taking note of her style; orders of Tahitian pearls have skyrocketed. (The New York Times, "Speaking Chic to Power").

Personally, I'm all for it, as long as articles such as this are contained in appropriate sections of newspapers (e.g, "Styles"). I would not like to see an article about Pelosi's fashion on the front page displace her recent laudable move to appoint a committee on Global Warming (see here).