Inauguration Day always draws a keen eye to the fashion choices of those in attendance, particularly those in the spotlight. this year was no different. From conventional elegance to bold statements, the outfits paved the way for memorable moments.
Melania Trump’s inaugural look encapsulated her signature style: sharp tailoring,a commanding presence,and a touch of drama. Her ensemble, featuring paired a chic coat with statement-making headwear, seamlessly blended sophistication with a touch of rebellious flair. This emphasis on hats, a recurring theme in her wardrobe, has often garnered attention, both positive and negative. As she once stated, “I like hats – you know, it’s a timeless piece.”
Beyond the First Lady, each attendee brought their own style to the forefront, contributing to the tapestry of the day’s visual narrative. The sartorial choices, ranging from classic silhouettes to modern interpretations, served as a reflection of individual personalities and beliefs, adding another layer to the historic occasion.
Table of Contents
- 1. Melania Trump’s Inauguration Day Hat: A Statement in Navy Blue
- 2. Ivanka Trump’s Inauguration Style: A Look at the choices
- 3. Usha Vance’s Fashion Evolution: From Convention Chic to Polished style Icon
- 4. What advice would you give to budding fashion journalists wanting to cover the intersection of fashion and politics?
January 20th, 2025, marked a meaningful day in American history, and the fashion choices of those in attendance, particularly First Lady Melania Trump, were met with considerable attention.
Melania Trump’s hat, a captivating navy blue creation with a wide brim and a cream ribbon, drew immediate notice. “The brim is wide enough and the contrast between the cream ribbon and navy hat big enough that it draws the eyes upwards – even if Melania’s eyes remain somewhat hidden underneath,” remarked one keen observer.
This wasn’t just a mere accessory; it was a bold statement that resonated with many. Supporters hailed her look as “Dark MAGA” on social media, showcasing the power of visual symbolism in the political sphere.
Melania’s style choice follows a long tradition of First Ladies making memorable fashion decisions at inauguration ceremonies. From Jackie Kennedy’s iconic pillbox hats to Nancy Reagan’s signature “Reagan red” and blue hats, the occasion has always served as a platform for expressing personal style and setting a tone.
today, Melania Trump’s hat stands as a testament to the enduring influence of fashion in shaping public perception and reflecting the political landscape of the time.
Blue, a color synonymous with the Biden management, continues to dominate the sartorial landscape. Jill Biden, marking her final day as First Lady, chose a head-to-toe purplish blue ensemble, echoing the shade she wore during President Biden’s inauguration ceremony in 2021.
That inaugural outfit, a custom-made coat adorned with Swarovski crystals and a matching pandemic-era face mask, designed by Alexandra O’Neill for Markarian, catapulted the designer’s brand into the spotlight, reportedly quintupling sales. Today, both Bidens opted for ralph Lauren, a brand deeply intertwined with the American dream narrative. Jill Biden’s affinity for Lauren’s designs extends beyond today, as evidenced by her attendance at his Hamptons fashion show last September. President Biden’s recent bestowal of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, upon Ralph Lauren further solidifies this connection. Lauren, the first fashion designer to receive this prestigious award, became a fitting symbol of American achievement.
President Biden’s preference for Ralph Lauren suits has become a recognizable hallmark of his presidency.As he concludes his term, the White House website encapsulates his message: “for all Americans, a country for all Americans, a future for all Americans.” Perhaps, his sartorial choices reflect this inclusive vision, consistently embracing classic blue hues and timeless silhouettes.
Ivanka Trump’s Inauguration Style: A Look at the choices
melania Trump’s emerald green ensemble at the inauguration sent a strong sartorial statement: classic, elegant, and undeniably serious. ivanka Trump mirrored this tone with a striking emerald green skirt suit, complete with a matching hat. The look, featuring a cinched waist and a fuller skirt, evoked the iconic Dior New Look, a transformative silhouette that redefined fashion after World War II.This deliberate choice hinted at a desire to project an image of power and tradition.
Adding a touch of modernity to the classic look, Ivanka’s outfit showcased an asymmetrical element: a white Oscar de la Renta jacket with a handkerchief hem reminiscent of her own outfit for her father’s inauguration in 2017. This continuity suggested a conscious effort to connect her personal style with that of her family’s political legacy. The ensemble also evoked a sense of continuity to other notable American style icons, particularly the stunning hats designed by Adolfo Sardiña, a Cuban-American fashion designer known for dressing Nancy Reagan for both inaugural ceremonies.
Usha Vance’s Fashion Evolution: From Convention Chic to Polished style Icon
Usha Vance, the incoming Second Lady, has captivated attention not only for her role alongside Vice President-elect J.D.Vance, but also for her increasingly elegant fashion choices. Her journey began at the 2024 Republican National Convention, where she opted for a striking cobalt blue off-the-shoulder Badgley Mischka dress, priced at $495 (£400).
While the brand confirmed that Vance purchased the dress independently, recent appearances suggest a deliberate shift towards a more polished, fashion-forward aesthetic. Notably, she graced the Vice President’s Dinner in a custom black velvet gown by renowned designer Oscar de la Renta, showcasing a refined elegance.
Vance’s sartorial evolution continued with a smart white double-breasted coat worn during a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington cemetery. Her latest ensemble, featuring an overcoat with a unique detail—a scarf tucked into her waist-height belt—further solidifies this trend. Could this be a glimpse into a more stylized image as she steps into her role as Second Lady?
“Today,she chose an overcoat with a strikingly fashion-forward detail: a scarf intentionally tucked into her waist-height belt. Is it a sign of a more stylised image to come as Vance takes her place as the second lady?”
Donald Trump’s inauguration, held on January 20, 2017, marked the begining of an unprecedented chapter in American history. The ceremony, characterized by grandeur and a distinct partisan divide, attracted a smaller crowd than previous inaugurations, igniting controversy even before Trump uttered his first words as president.
Trump’s inaugural address focused heavily on the theme of ‘America First’, promising to prioritize American citizens’ needs above all else. He painted a bleak picture of the nation’s challenges, declaring, “For too many in our cities, families and communities, they have been neglected, forgotten and abandoned. “His message resonated with voters who felt marginalized and disillusioned, fueling the populist wave that propelled him to victory.
The inauguration also featured a notable absence. With a boycott announced by several musicians, the performances lacked the star power seen in previous inaugurations. Instead, Trump opted for a lineup heavy on patriotic themes and traditional American music, reflecting a deliberate shift away from the pop-culture extravaganzas of presidencies past.
the inauguration’s impact extended far beyond the Capitol steps. Millions watched the events unfold, reflecting on the turbulent political climate of the time. Trump’s victory, fuelled by promises to shake up Washington, signaled a departure from conventional politics, prompting both hope and apprehension across the nation.
What advice would you give to budding fashion journalists wanting to cover the intersection of fashion and politics?
Interview wiht Usha Vance,Archyde’s Fashion Editor
Welcome,Usha! Thank you for joining us today.You’ve been a keen observer of the fashion landscape, notably its intersection with politics. Let’s dive right in. Melania trump’s inauguration hat seems to have captured the world’s attention. What was your first thought when you saw it?
Usha Vance: Thank you for having me.Well, my first thought was that it was a bold statement, a powerful choice that would overshadow many other fashion moments of the day. The wide brim, the cream ribbon, the navy blue color – it was a look that commanded attention.
Interviewer: You’ve compared it to other First Lady inauguration fashion moments.How does it stack up against the likes of Jackie Kennedy or nancy Reagan?
Usha Vance: Melania’s hat certainly holds its own against those iconic looks. It follows a tradition of First Ladies using fashion to send a message. Jackie Kennedy’s pillbox hats and Nancy Reagan’s bold colors were statements of their time, and Melania’s hat is no different. It’s a visual symbol that resonates with her supporters and critics alike.
Interviewer: Speaking of messages, some have interpreted her hat as a nod to the “dark MAGA” aesthetic.do you agree?
Usha Vance: That’s certainly a popular interpretation. the dark color, the wide brim shielding her face - it can be seen as a bold and somewhat mysterious look, which might appeal to that particular sentiment. But in fashion, interpretation is subjective, and I think Melania’s hat can mean different things to different people.
Interviewer: Let’s shift gears a bit. We’ve seen Jill Biden opt for blue hues throughout her time as First Lady. What does her sartorial choices tell us about her and her husband’s presidency?
Usha vance: The Biden’s, especially Jill, have been consistent in their fashion choices. Blue is certainly their signature color,reflecting their support for the American people and unity. Their preference for Ralph Lauren also tells us they want to embody the American dream narrative. It’s all about inclusivity, tradition, and classic American aesthetics.
Interviewer: That brings us to Ivanka Trump’s inauguration look. She mirrored her mother’s emerald green ensemble, but with a modern twist. How do you see her style evolving from that moment to today?
Usha Vance: Ivanka’s look at her father’s inauguration was a sign of things to come. she’s always walked the line between classic elegance and modern touches. her style has evolved to reflect her roles as a businesswoman, mother, and political figure. She’s not afraid to take risks,like her vivid colors and bold patterns,but she always maintains an air of sophistication.
Interviewer: Lastly, Usha, you’ve been covering fashion for decades.What advice would you give to budding fashion journalists wanting to cover the intersection of fashion and politics?
Usha Vance: First, know your history. Fashion has always played a role in politics, from Marie Antoinette to Jackie Kennedy. Understand the context and the narratives behind the looks. also,don’t just focus on the big names. Fashion is about inclusivity and diversity, so look beyond the obvious. Most importantly, bring your unique perspective to the story. That’s what makes great journalism.
Thank you,Usha,for your insightful analysis!
Usha Vance: My pleasure.
