The Presidential Inauguration is much more than political ceremonies in the United States of America. It is a moment of important history, traditions and symbolism, with every detail scrutinised globally. While the Presidents deliver speeches and lay out policies, there is a person who doesn’t say a word, simply holding the persona of ‘American royalty’ to help humanise the president.
The First Lady of the United States serves as the hostess of the White House, traditionally held by the president’s wife. Although the role is unofficial, unelected, and unpaid, the First Lady plays a significant part in state functions and ceremonies, often accompanying or representing the president. While most First Ladies have refrained from outside employment during their tenure, exceptions included Eleanor Roosevelt, who earned money through writing and lectures (largely donated to charity) and Jill Biden, who continued to work as an educator.
When the President takes office, the first lady becomes a familiar face due to her appearances during the presidential campaign. While millions anticipate inaugurations for the historical milestones, speeches, and spectacle of it all, many are more focused on just one thing—the first ladies’ fashion on inauguration day. It is a chance for her to make the first impression as the first lady. Let’s dive into the hidden symbolism of recent First Ladies’ inaugural fashion choices and what they revealed about their values and aspirations.
Melania Trump
Melania Trump stepped onto the inaugural stage in January 2017 wearing a powder blue Ralph Lauren dress. The structured dress and cropped jacket, paired with matching gloves, was compared to Jacqueline Kennedy’s iconic inaugural look in 1961. The colour blue—a symbol of tranquillity and loyalty—was also interpreted as an attempt to exude calm amidst the controversial political atmosphere surrounding Donald Trump’s presidency at that time. She also chose an American designer, showcasing a commitment to domestic fashion and tradition. The minimalism and simplicity of her attire reflected her enigmatic and elegant persona, aligning with her carefully curated public image.
Returning to the white house for the 2025 Inauguration, Melania Trump wore an Adam Lippes wool coat and austere boater-style hat, whose rim almost entirely hid her eyes. This choice of millinery turned heads. With her face half hidden by her hat, Melania kept her aloof and mysterious image. Her clothes reflected her craving for privacy, giving a military-esque vibe and demonstrating it as a piece of armour since she underwent four years of intense scrutiny from the public during Jill Biden’s tenure.
Read More: Fashion Moments that Defined Trump’s Inauguration
Jill Biden
Dr Jill Biden’s fashion during Joe Biden’s 2021 inauguration also held thoughtful symbolism. She wore a custom blue Markarian coat and dress with Swarovski crystals. Blue in her attire made an appearance representing trust, stability and hope—the themes that were central to her husband’s presidential campaign message which was regarding national healing.
The detailing of the outfit reflected her own personality: intricate yet understated like a balance between strength and warmth. As a longtime educator, Jill Biden’s fashion choices likewise have often showcased approachability while maintaining a sense of formality.
Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama’s inaugural fashion choices were as groundbreaking as her role as the first African American First Lady. She was the First Lady twice, so let’s break down each of her inauguration ensembles. For Barack Obama’s 2009 inauguration, Michelle chose a lemongrass-hued dress and coat by Isabel Toledo, a Cuban-American designer who passed away in 2019 of breast cancer. Her choice spoke volumes about inclusivity and diversity, celebrating the multicultural fabric of America.
In 2013, For President Barack Obama’s second inauguration, Michelle Obama chose a navy silk jacquard coat and dress in a checked pattern from Thom Browne. Throughout her two terms as first lady, Michelle Obama consistently raised the profiles of emerging American designers, choosing homegrown talent who deeply aligned with her values, which also mirrored her role as a champion of representation and opportunity.
Hillary Clinton
Before her time in pantsuits as secretary of state, Hillary Clinton more often wore dresses and skirts as first lady. At Bill Clinton’s inauguration ceremony in 1993, Hillary Clinton’s choice of a blue suit for Bill Clinton’s first inauguration in 1993 carried subtle symbolism. The colour blue (associated with trust, loyalty, and confidence) reflected her desire to project these qualities as First Lady. The Darcy Creech hat, simple yet elegant, was seen as a subtle nod to her growing political stature, signalling her emergence onto the national stage.
For Bill Clinton’s second inauguration in 1997, Hillary’s bubblegum pink swing coat carried layers of hidden meaning. Pink, often considered a feminine u, was a bold choice that defied the conventional expectations for women in politics, subtly signalling her willingness to break away from traditional roles. The colour also symbolised compassion and warmth, aligning with her later work advocating for children’s rights and healthcare reform.
The Language of Fashion in Politics
First Ladies have always acknowledged that their fashion choices carry a lot of weight. Every piece of clothing, colour and designer is carefully chosen to send a message. Whether it’s supporting diversity or honouring tradition, their outfits represent their roles as national figures.
In today’s world of social media and constant public attention, these choices get even more attention, analysed and discussed. While First Ladies don’t give the inaugural speeches, their outfits often say just as much.
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