20 Most Iconic Fashion Moments at Presidential Inaugurations
Presidential inaugurations double as fashion runways where First Ladies, Vice Presidents, and guests use iconic styles to blend tradition, symbolism, and personal flair, creating unforgettable historical moments.
- Alyana Aguja
- 6 min read
The presidential inaugurations have long been a stage for powerful fashion moments where style meets history, politics, and culture. From Jacqueline Kennedy’s timeless elegance to Michelle Obama’s modern sophistication, each First Lady has used her attire to convey unity, strength, and identity. These fashion choices, often bold and symbolic, transcend mere clothing and become iconic symbols of the era, setting trends for years to come.
1. Jacqueline Kennedy’s Inaugural Ensemble (1961)
Robert Knudsen from Wikipedia
At John F. Kennedy’s inauguration, Jacqueline Kennedy wore a fawn-colored wool coat designed by Oleg Cassini, paired with a matching pillbox hat. Her chic and understated look set a new standard for First Lady fashion, emphasizing elegance and simplicity. This ensemble solidified her status as a global fashion icon.
2. Lady Bird Johnson Yellow Coat, 1965
Robert Knudsen from White House Press Office
Lady Bird wore a sunny yellow coat and matching hat to attend Lyndon B. Johnson’s inauguration. Her bright color stood well with the then-social change climate in America because it signified hope and optimism. Her style highlighted her penchant for bold colors combined with practical fashions.
3. Pat Nixon’s High-Neck Gown (1969)
Image from Wikipedia
Pat Nixon was attired in a double-breasted mimosa yellow coat with a high-neck gown underneath, which Karen Stark designed for Harvey Berin. The overall effect of the ensemble was one of modesty and formality that characterized the times, while the bright color introduced a splash of modernity to the traditionalist’s getup.
4. Pale Blue, Flower-Print Embroidered Coat Made for Betty Ford (1974)
David Hume Kennerly from Library of Congress
This attire was designed to be worn at the presidential swearing-in. This coat’s subtle embroidery exemplifies a quiet yet tasteful statement in art appreciation that complements the advocacy for the importance of art. Much of Mrs. Ford’s dress often demonstrated her social responsibility towards issues she expressed regarding culture.
5. Recycled Gown for Rosalynn Carter (1977)
Image from White House
This blue chiffon dress that matched Rosalynn Carter with a blue gold chiffon in President Jimmy Carter’s inaugural procession in which she used again the one worn for her husband Jimmy’s gubernatorial ball six years ago symbolized frugality in time of recession. Millions of other Americans who aced identical fiscal pressures saw themselves in Mrs. Carter.
6. Nancy Reagan’s Lace Inaugural Gown (1981)
Image from Wikipedia
Nancy Reagan wore a one-shouldered white lace gown designed by James Galanos for Ronald Reagan’s inauguration. The elegant dress featured intricate beading and showcased her Hollywood glamour roots. Her fashion choices often reflected her background in the entertainment industry.
7. Barbara Bush’s Sapphire Velvet Gown (1989)
Image from Wikipedia
Barbara Bush selected a sapphire blue velvet gown designed by Arnold Scaasi for the inauguration of George H.W. Bush. It matched her classic pearl necklace well and was quite classic and elegant. She was indeed graceful.
8. Hillary Clinton’s Purple Pantsuit (1993)
Gage Skidmore from Wikipedia
Hillary Clinton donned a violet beaded lace sheath gown and an iridescent blue velvet mousseline overskirt designed by Sarah Phillips at Bill Clinton’s inauguration. The same spirit of purple blend of red and blue- was a move toward bipartisanship and unity. Her fashion had ways of supporting political causes but in a rather subtle manner.
9. Laura Bush’s Crystal-Embellished Gown (2001)
Image from Wikipedia
For George W. Bush’s inauguration, Laura Bush wore a red, crystal-embroidered Chantilly lace and silk georgette gown designed by Michael Faircloth. The bright color and elaborate embroidery brought out the lady’s Southern charm. She supported American designers and artists.
10. Michelle Obama Isabel Toledo Ensemble (2009)
Armando Tinoco from Wikimedia Commons
At Barack Obama’s first inauguration, Michelle Obama wore a lemongrass yellow dress and matching coat by Cuban-American designer Isabel Toledo. This lesser-known designer’s bright hue and choice said much about this new era: inclusivity and hope. Her fashion choices often highlight diverse talents.
11. Michelle Obama’s Jason Wu Gown (2009)
Joyce Boghosian from Wikimedia Commons
Michelle Obama wore a one-shouldered white chiffon gown designed by Jason Wu for the inaugural balls. The delicate fabric and design of the gown epitomized grace and modernity. This choice catapulted the young designer to fame.
12. Michelle Obama’s Thom Browne Coat (2013)
Greg from Wikimedia Commons
During Obama’s second inauguration, Michelle Obama wore a navy checked coat from Thom Browne. Inspired by men’s silk ties, this outfit added to her sophisticated and contemporary fashion style. She complemented this with a pop of color on her belt and gloves.
13. Michelle Obama’s Red Jason Wu Gown (2013)
Lawrence Jackson from Wikimedia Commons
For the 2013 inaugural balls, Michelle Obama stunned in a custom ruby red chiffon and velvet gown by Jason Wu. The bold color choice exuded confidence and elegance. Revisiting the same designer highlighted her loyalty and appreciation for his work.
14. Melania Trump’s Powder Blue Ralph Lauren Suit (2017)
Regine Mahaux from Wikimedia Commons
Melania Trump channeled Jacqueline Kennedy by wearing a powder blue cashmere jacket and matching mock-turtle dress by Ralph Lauren. The monochromatic look was classic and contemporary, paying homage to past First Ladies. Her choice of an American designer underscored national pride.
15. Melania Trump’s Hervé Pierre Gown (2017)
Image from The White House
Melania Trump wore an off-the-shoulder vanilla crepe gown designed by Hervé Pierre for the inaugural balls. The sleek silhouette and red ribbon accent showcased modern elegance. This was a collaboration with Pierre, an independent designer.
16. Jill Biden’s Ocean Blue Markarian Ensemble (2021)
White House from Wikimedia Commons
Dr. Jill Biden wore an ocean blue wool coat and dress from emerging designer Alexandra O’Neill of Markarian at Joe Biden’s inauguration, with Swarovski crystals emblematic of trust, confidence, and stability in the ensemble. Her choice celebrated a young, independent American designer with renewal and optimism.
17. Kamala Harris’ Purple Christopher John Rogers Coat (2021)
Image from Office of Senator Kamala Harris
Vice President Kamala Harris made history in a purple coat and dress designed by Black designer Christopher John Rogers. The color purple is closely associated with Shirley Chisholm, symbolizing her bipartisanship and role as the first female Vice President. Her ensemble emphasized her interest in promoting diversity in fashion.
18. Michelle Obama’s Plum Sergio Hudson Suit (2021)
Tim Pierce from Wikimedia Commons
Michelle Obama stunned in a plum-colored coat, turtleneck, and matching pants from designer Sergio Hudson. The all-in-one outfit, which included a statement belt, was one of the most potent and sophisticated monochromes. Her bold choice became one of the most talked-about looks of the day, reinforcing her role as a modern style icon.
19. Barack Obama’s Camel Coat (2021)
Pete Souza from Wikimedia Commons
Former President Obama stood out in a sleek camel coat that exemplified effortless sophistication. Understated yet impeccable tailoring and choice of color spoke volumes about his influence on modern men’s fashion. The coat was the day’s highlight, proving that even simplicity can make a statement.
20. Ella Emhoff’s Miu Miu Coat (2021)
Image from The White House
Ella Emhoff, Kamala Harris’s stepdaughter, stole the show at the 2021 inauguration in a bejeweled plaid coat by Miu Miu. The playful yet polished look highlighted her individuality and cemented her as a rising style star. Her quirky fashion choice resonated with younger audiences, blending tradition with modernity.