Whose presidential face is on your T-shirt?

August 18, 10:54 AMBaltimore Fashion ExaminerChristine Epps

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According to many newspapers and online websites, retailers are using creative slogans and apparel to profit from the images of Democratic White House hopeful, Barack Obama, and Republican White House hopeful, John McCain.

However it seems Barack Obama is a more profitable candidate for retailers, based on sales revenue. Political experts believe McCain, who will be 72 on August 29th, is unlikely to create a similar sales frenzy among young buyers due to his age.

Popular online retailer Cafepress.com, which sells consumer designed items such as T-shirts, mugs and underwear, says Obama now represents about 75% of political sales while items showing McCain account for roughly 10%.

Scottsdale, Arizona-based Steve Ferber, who has sold political memorabilia for 30 years, said Obama is outselling McCain three-fold at Lori Ferber Presidential Collections, the online retailer he runs with his wife Lori, who said collectible sales are now the strongest since Ronald Reagan.

Even national retailer Urban Outfitters stocks T-shirts that read "Obama for yo Mama", “I’ll be Barack”, “Obama says knock you out”, and "Barack 'n' Roll." Republican items include a "Vote '08" T-shirt sporting a red elephant.

Who knows if Obama’s popularity in the fashion world will mean victory or if his wearable advertisements prove to be no match for McCain.

Will a candidate’s mug shot on a T-shirt influence your vote in November? Or is this just a ridiculous notion? I’ll leave it up to you to discuss.