Lauren Boebert looks nearly unrecognizable without her glasses on

Lauren Boebert, the fiery congresswoman from Colorado, is as well-known for her controversial political stances as she is for her distinct personal style.

Since she first took the national stage in 2020, her appearance has undergone a noticeable transformation, evolving from a more casual, rugged look to a polished, almost studious image. This change has not gone unnoticed by the public or the media, sparking a range of reactions—from admiration to ridicule.

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From Flannel to Frames: The Transformation

Before her 2020 campaign, Boebert was often seen in flannel shirts, with her hair dyed blonde, embodying the quintessential Western, working-class aesthetic. This look was well-aligned with her persona as a small-town business owner who ran a gun-themed restaurant in Rifle, Colorado. However, as she transitioned from local figure to national politician, her style shifted dramatically.

Palisade Peaches with my boys pic.twitter.com/RnOo6JpwgL

— Lauren Boebert (@laurenboebert) August 6, 2023

One of the most significant changes was her adoption of black-frame glasses and red lipstick—two accessories that have become her signature on the Congress floor. This transformation appears intentional, likely designed to enhance her image as a serious, capable legislator.

“It’s almost like her campaign team advised her that glasses would make her look smarter than she really is,” quipped social media figure Ryan Shead. His comment reflects a broader skepticism about whether Boebert’s new look is more about optics than authenticity.

The comparison to Sarah Palin, another conservative woman who also wore black-frame glasses during her political career, was inevitable. “They ALL plagiarize like mad—she’s ripping off Sarah Palin—isn’t it obvious?” wrote one social media user, noting the similarities between the two politicians.

Both women share a pro-gun stance and have cultivated an image that blends traditional femininity with a tough, no-nonsense attitude. Critics have even speculated that Boebert’s glasses might not be prescription, with one user tweeting, “This is close to or are, in fact, zero strength glasses (demonstrated via no relative shifting of the image of the side of her head).”

Media and Public Reactions

The jokes and critiques about Boebert’s glasses have extended beyond social media. Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel took a jab at Boebert in a 2021 monologue, saying, “This is a woman who wears glasses to make it seem like she can read.” Such comments underscore the extent to which Boebert’s appearance has become a point of contention in the public discourse.

However, Boebert has not always adhered strictly to her new look. She has occasionally been photographed without her glasses, revealing a noticeably different appearance. In a May 2024 Instagram post celebrating her son’s high school graduation, Boebert shared photos where she appeared without her signature specs.

The absence of glasses, coupled with bare lips, gave her a more mature and elongated facial appearance, leading some followers to comment on the difference. “I’m missing the red lipstick,” one Instagram user noted, while another commented, “Looks so good without glasses.”

This isn’t the only time Boebert has been seen without her glasses. In May 2024, she shared photos on Facebook from her son’s 8th-grade graduation, where she helped him with his tie sans glasses. Fans were quick to voice their approval, with one writing, “You look better without glasses.” In another post from July 2023, a follower bluntly stated, “You look better without glasses.”

Boebert’s appearance without glasses was also highlighted in April 2024 when she underwent emergency surgery to remove a blood clot caused by May-Thurner Syndrome. In photos shared from her hospital bed, she appeared without her glasses, though she still wore a full face of makeup.

pic.twitter.com/QXvmXE0lP8

— Lauren Boebert (@laurenboebert) June 27, 2024

This rare glimpse of Boebert without her usual accessories sparked further conversation among her followers, many of whom were struck by how different she looked.

The Critique of Boebert’s Wardrobe Choices

Boebert’s style choices extend beyond her glasses and lipstick, often drawing as much attention as her political statements. In November 2021, she wore a one-sleeved red dress to a meeting with former President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago.

The dress, emblazoned with the words “Let’s go Brandon” across the back—a coded phrase used by conservatives to mock President Joe Biden—became a flashpoint for criticism. Social media users were quick to pounce on the outfit, with one commenting, “It was easy to fit Brandon across that keister!” Another remarked on the dress’s informal style, saying, “Can we go to prom?” Yet another user suggested that Boebert was “desperate” to make an impression.

It’s not a phrase, it’s a movement! #LGB pic.twitter.com/MpeKAEVfWB

— Lauren Boebert (@laurenboebert) November 5, 2021

Boebert’s penchant for blending business attire with a touch of sex appeal has also been a subject of debate. Her GOP primary opponent, Richard Holtorf, took a swipe at her style, telling 710KNUS in May 2024, “You know what I see about two blocks up from the state capitol? I see women dressed like Boebert. High heels, short skirt, low-cut blouse,” implying that her wardrobe choices were reminiscent of sex workers.

Despite this harsh critique, not everyone is against her fashion sense. Rapper 50 Cent, for instance, expressed his admiration, tweeting, “Lauren Boebert, Colorado Republican making the White House look good,” alongside a photo of the two.

Lauren Boebert, Colorado Republican making the white house look good. pic.twitter.com/GJnb9UnLbE

— 50cent (@50cent) June 5, 2024

A Calculated Image or Authentic Self?

The evolution of Lauren Boebert’s style raises questions about the role of image in modern politics. Is her transformation a calculated move to align herself with a certain political image, or is it simply the natural progression of a woman growing into her role on the national stage? While some may view her adoption of glasses and more polished looks as a strategic attempt to be taken more seriously, others see it as an attempt to mask her inexperience.

It was great to see Majority Leader @SteveScalise here in Colorado today.

The road to holding our incredibly important House majority runs right through Colorado!

Together, we’re going to hold and EXPAND it! pic.twitter.com/QOaiBOwh2g

— Lauren Boebert (@laurenboebert) July 31, 2024

Regardless of the motivations behind her style choices, Boebert has undeniably crafted a distinct personal brand that resonates with her supporters while drawing ire from her critics. In a political landscape where appearance often intersects with perception, Boebert’s evolving look continues to be as polarizing as the policies she advocates.

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