Former foreign minister Julie Bishop is the definition of a female powerhouse.
As a staunch politician, a fierce advocate for working women’s rights and with an ability to capture the attention of everyone in a room in the blink of an eye, she’s a force to be reckoned with.
But there is another thing Bishop has proved she can master time and time again, and it’s something we can all take some major inspiration from – her fashion sense.
Indeed, the 66-year-old might have had to follow some strict wardrobe guidelines throughout her time in Parliament, but that’s never stopped her from looking like she just stepped off a runway – one that would get a raving review from Anna Wintour, no doubt.
And her passion for female advocacy is clear – speaking at the Australian Women’s Weekly Women of the Future Awards earlier in 2018, Bishop shared some stirring words that resonated with the room: “It is not acceptable for our party to contribute to a fall in Australia’s ratings from 15th in the world in terms of female parliamentary representatives in 1999, to 50th today.”
“There’s a lot to be done and I’m committed to be helping do it.”
So to celebrate Bishop – a woman in politics who is proving the power and influence females can have in the modern world – we’ve rounded up her very best style moments.
Take notes, people – these outfits come with power, confidence and proof that women really can do anything.
Julie was an esteemed guest of King Charles III for his May 6th coronation.
Armani
Julie wowwed the crowd at an exclusive night with Giorgio Armani in March 2023 to launch the book ‘Red Carpet Oscars’ by Djanna Mulhearn.
Women of the Future Awards 2022
Julie Bishop was looking fashionable as ever at this year’s Women of the Future awards, in a crisp white tailored blazer, accessorised with a colourful scarf and red bag and heels.
In a dazzling Fashion Week debut, Julie stepped out wearing a stunning silver dress as she attended the Carla Zampatti closing show.
Accessorising the look with a striking black bow,the stylish politician looked fit for the runway!
Julie and her partner David Panton looked like the ultimate power couple on the red carpet at the InStyle Women of Style Awards – and would you look at those pins! (Image: Getty)
These two are simply glowing with good health! (Image: Getty)
The 62-year-old debuted a brand new chop at the glitzy event that set off her glowing complexion beautifully. What IS her secret?? (Image: Getty)
On May 8, the ambassador for Witchery’s White Shirt Campaign attended a media event to support the initiative, which raises funds and awareness for ovarian cancer. (Image: Getty)
We got another look at Julie’s new ‘do, and we’re loving her chic makeover! (Image: Getty)
In a dazzling display, Julie Bishop wowed Australia in a showstopping blue sequined dress by Rachel Gilbert as the federal budget was announced on Tuesday, April 2nd. (Image: Getty)
The fashionable politician jumped for joy as the first budget surplus in over a decade was announced.
Sharing the celebratory picture to her Instagram, Julie said the announcement was “great news for all Australians”. (Image: AAP)
Minister of fashion indeed – Julie wore a gorgeous powder blue peplum top and skirt during question time in the House of Representatives in December 2018.
The very same week, Julie wore this bright ensemble that made a bold statement at Parliament House (Image: Getty)
On Saturday, December 15, Bishop wore a stunning one-shoulder black jumpsuit that showed off her femininity and knack for style.
The 62-year-old spoke candidly at the event, which was to launch the Future Women Club. Discussing the issues around the small number of women in politics, she said: “We can all do something about that… I hope that as Australia’s first female foreign minister, I’ve done a little bit because I wanted to ensure that I made it easier for the next woman to be foreign minister, not harder.” (Image: Instagram / @juliebishopmp)
Bishop was one of the most high profile guests in attendance at Karl Stefanovic’s Mexican wedding to Jasmine Yarbrough in November 2018 – and this sparkly silver number did all the talking. (Image: Instagram/abedwani)
Heavy rain didn’t put a damper on Bishop’s parade at the 2018 Melbourne Cup – she looked flawless in her printed frock paired with a black fascinator. (Image: Getty)
Bishop opted for a trendy all-white ensemble when she met her Indonesian counterpart, foreign minister Retno Marsudi. (Image: Getty)
This 1920s flapper-inspired gown looked stunning on Bishop as she stepped out with partner David Panton at the NGV Gala in December 2018. (Image: Getty)
Attending the Australian Women’s Weekly Women of the Future Awards, Bishop looked powerful in a Chanel-esque tweed jacket. (Image: Getty)
Julie Bishop arrives at the 2018 Australian Women’s Weekly Women of the Future Awards
While visiting Edinburgh in 2018, Bishop wore a chic red coat with a high-collar and pearl drop earrings. (Image: Getty)
A power jacket and a dazzling smile is all you need to make a good impression – here Julie shakes hands with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. (Image: Getty)
She’d stand out from the crowd in any colour, but this bright red ensemble looks strong and prominent on Julie as she stands with French President Emmanuel Macron. (Image: Getty)
Julie well and truly embraced preppy chic on Derby Day in Melbourne – her top hat finishes off her look perfectly. (Image: Getty)
This glitzy number was the perfect evening outfit choice at the Myer Runway series. (Image: Getty)
The MAAS Centre for Fashion Ball or the Oscars? It could have been either in this stunning black evening gown worn by the stylish politician. (Image: Getty)
Julie Bishop talks at the The Australian Women’s Weekly Women of the Future Awards 2017.
This stunning midnight gown worn by Bishop at the 2017 G’Day USA Black Tie Gala looked striking as she took to the red carpet. (Image: Getty)
Oh, and did we mention she rubbed shoulders with Nicole Kidman at the glitzy event!? (Image: Getty)
And speaking of A-list pals, Bishop accessorised her chic LBD with a statement flower necklace… and none other than Chris Hemsworth! (Image: Getty)
Pulling off the LBD like no other, Bishop looked stunning in this lace number while sitting front row of the David Jones Spring/Summer 2016 Fashion Launch. (Image: Getty)
Attending the G’Day USA gala with partner David in 2016, the pair looked every bit the glam power couple. (Image: Getty)