Fashion at the Inauguration

While Joe Biden’s inauguration was scaled back due to the current coronavirus pandemic, the audience used the small numbers to focus on the fashion debuted at the event.  During and after the ceremony, many took to social media to discuss the fashion choices.

While red carpets have been few and far between since the onset of the coronavirus, the inauguration took the place of these high fashion events to give viewers something more positive to discuss amid dark times. 

There was a return to Michelle Obama’s style of fashion from her time as First Lady. Obama was known for a sort of “fashion diplomacy,” in which she did not maintain a relationship with a singular designer but rather made fashion choices that highlighted designers and brands that aligned with her current objectives.

Many have commented that the use of dress during the inauguration helped to reinforce the messages of the new administration.  Garments of a variety of colors from many different designers graced those at the inauguration on Wednesday.  The meshing of styles within the inauguration ceremony was more than fashion.  It signified the values and intent of the new administration.

The variety of colors: reds, whites, blues, and even what is now arguably the signature color of the ceremony, purple, showcased all those present at the inauguration.  This represented a unity among leaders, reclaiming the importance of the entire administration.