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Fashionable Families

By RUTH GRAHAM | April 11, 2006

Last weekend, the clothing company Gant unfurled a series of unusual advertisements at its flagship store on Fifth Avenue: The models, seen at left, are Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his family, cavorting in Martha's Vineyard. A new image will be unveiled every few weeks throughout the summer, and all proceeds from a special line of merchandise will go to Mr. Kennedy's environmental advocacy group, Waterkeeper Alliance.

Gant's director of marketing and public relations, Douglas Geller, said the pairing was natural. "Robert wears Gant, he lives the lifestyle that our brand was founded upon ... and his organization's goals and ideals complement our New England roots and American East Coast heritage."

So perhaps it's not surprising after all. The Kennedys have always had a fashionable side. Designer Oleg Cassini, who died last month, created Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis's chic first lady style, and John F. Kennedy Jr. cut a dashing figure, whether on Rollerblades or in a tux.The question is, what other political dynasties should be posing for designers?

THE BUSHES

Family members include President George H.W. and his son, President George W. Son Jeb is governor of Florida, with an eye cast north to Washington.

Should pose for Ralph Lauren, whose brand signals red, white, and true-blue Americana. Plus, Bush niece Lauren is dating Ralph's son, David - and her father, Neil, said in 2001 that he's a "Ralph Lauren Polo guy."

THE CLINTONS

Family members include President Bill and Senator Hillary.

Should pose for Brooks Brothers, whose tailored straight-arrow looks are perfect for Hillary, who favors pantsuits and the occasional sweater. And Bill, seen recently in both teal and peach ties, could stand to don a more classic look.

THE CUOMOS

Family members include patriarch Mario, New York's 56th governor. Son Andrew is the front-runner in the state race for attorney general - an office that Gant's Kennedy, Andrew Cuomo's former brother-in-law, considered running for.

Should pose for Kenneth Cole, who is married to sister Maria. (Andrew is seen above in the front row last year.) His classically tailored suits are ideal for the campaign trail, and his socially engaged - and frequently political - ad campaigns put him squarely in the Democratic camp.

THE GORES

Family members include Vice President Albert, the son of a Tennessee senator. His daughter Karenna has said she might someday like to run for office.

Should pose for Stella McCartney, who uses environmentally friendly materials - and no leather or fur - in her sleek, modern garments, which would be perfect for the Gore women. That should please Gore pere, who appears on the cover of the May's "green issue" of Vanity Fair with George Clooney and Julia Roberts. The other cover boy? Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Naturally, he's wearing Gant.


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