13 First Lady Inaugural Gowns Through The Past 50 Years

The first lady inaugural gowns can make a political or emotional statement, put a once-unknown designer on the map, or set the tone for an entire presidency’s worth of style. Here, we look back at decades of awe-inspiring First Lady inauguration frocks caught on camera through the past 50 years.

The Brief History of First Lady Inaugural Gowns

The Inaugural Ball hasn’t always been a must-see event for First Ladies. Original First Lady, Martha Washington, skipped her husband’s celebration, possibly because she didn’t really approve of him running for office in the first place. Prior to the 20th century, the Inaugural events were only occasionally attended by the First Lady. 

The famously-stylish and sociable hostess Dolley Madison was the first First Lady to host an official Inauguration Ball, in 1809. In her richly embroidered cream dress, with a substantial bustle, she set the tone for generations to come by pulling out all the stops when choosing her inaugural gown.

First Lady Inaugural Gowns Through The Past 50 Years

Here, we look back at the most recent inaugural ball gown of the first lady, and revisit the stories behind the gowns.

• Jill Biden -2021: At Joe Biden’s swearing-in ceremony in 2021, Jill Biden wore a  robin’s egg blue coat from the young New York–based label Markarian, created by designer Alexandra O’Neill. These first lady inaugural gowns are custom made and embroidered with Swarovski crystals for added sheen. Of course, the look comes with an accessory never before worn at an inaugural ceremony—a face mask. The covering is a reminder for future generations that, despite the celebrations of our new president, there is a pandemic still devastating the country.
• Melania Trump – 2017: After wearing a pale blue skirt suit by Ralph Lauren for the inauguration day events, Melania Trump changed into a cream gown with sculptural detail for the evening, collaborating with her long-time friend Hervé Pierre. Pierre was formerly the designer at New York-based house Carolina Herrera and her selection chimed with the message which her husband was encouraging at the time, telling Americans to ‘Buy American’ and put ‘America first’. The first lady inaugural gowns featured a ‘Republican red’ ribbon around the waist, yet the choice of Pierre was considered bipartisan. 

• Michelle Obama – 2009 & 2013: In 2009, in the run up to the inauguration there was a tremendous amount of media and social media attention and speculation as to what Mrs Obama might wear. Her white, romantic dress was embellished with organza flowers and crystals and her bare arms offered a powerful modern image of glamor at the White House, while nodding to Nancy Reagan’s look. Four years later, this time she chose a bright red halterneck gown from the designer.
• Laura Bush – 2001 & 2005: The newly minted first lady chose a vibrant red gown designed by fellow Texan Michael Faircloth for the 2001 inaugural ball. The lace dress was embellished with delicate beading that added a subtle shimmer to the look. It was one of the best inaugural gowns. Four years later, she chose Oscar de la Renta to design her first lady inaugural gowns. The icy-blue dress was covered with embellishments and sparkles for a glamorous look.
• Hillary Clinton – 1993 & 1997: At the inaugural ball 1993, Hillary wore a slinky, violet-beaded lace sheath dress with an iridescent blue velvet silk mousseline overskirt for added volume. Four years later, at Bill Clinton’s 1997 inauguration, Hillary wore a cheerful coral-colored dress and coat set in wool melton. For the ball, she dazzled in a high-neck, long-sleeve embroidered tulle dress in ivory metallics.

• Barbara Bush – 1989: Barbara Bush opted for a pleated confection by Arnold Scaasi in ‘Democrat blue’ at the inauguration for her husband, the Republican president George Bush. The velvet and satin fabrication, plus the shoulder pads also ticked several Eighties trend boxes, was one of the most elegant first lady outfits.
• Nancy Reagan – 1985 & 1981: Throughout her husband’s presidency and even after, Nancy Reagan was a known fashionista, often shopping in Beverly Hills on famed Rodeo Drive in her later years. For her first lady inaugural gowns in 1981, she chose a one-shoulder James Galanos beaded sheath gown. This wasn’t the first time Reagan wore Galanos. She donned his designs for her husband’s gubernatorial inauguration ball as well. Four years later, she stuck to the same color palette but added sleeves and even more sparkle. After all, it was the ’80s!
• Rosalynn Carter – 1977: This first lady made an unlikely fashion choice for the inaugural ball in 1977 by wearing the same dress that she had worn to celebrate her husband’s inauguration as governor of Georgia. It may have been surprising at the time, but we can see why the first lady would want to wear this stylish pale-blue gown again.
• Pat Nixon – 1973: When her husband was elected for another four years, Pat Nixon chose an Adele Simpson gown for his second inauguration ball. This time Mrs Nixon opted for first lady inaugural gowns with turquoise organza fabric, with a lamé material underneath for extra shimmer. 

See more: Top 35 Fashionable Collection Of White Skirt And Top Set

The Significant Meanings of First Lady Inaugural Gowns

Today, the inaugural ball gown of the first lady is possibly the most important dress that an incoming First Lady will ever wear (she likely holds only her wedding gown in higher regard). Over the years, inauguration dresses have captured the world’s headlines, marked the styles of the times and been immortalized in the fashion history books and at Washington’s Smithsonian Museum, which currently houses all of those pictured here. Let’s explore some facts about the first lady inaugural gown.

These Gowns Reflect Societal Trends: 

The choice of first lady dresses is not merely a matter of personal style but often reflects broader societal trends and fashion & beauty movements. During periods of economic hardship or war, First Ladies may opt for more subdued or practical designs, while in times of prosperity or cultural change, they may embrace more extravagant or innovative styles. These first lady inaugural gowns serve as a visual representation of the prevailing mood and values of the nation at the time of the inauguration.

Traditional Designer Choices of First Lady:

The selection of designers for inaugural gowns varies widely among First Ladies. While some may choose established fashion houses, others prioritize promoting American designers or even highlighting lesser-known talents. By showcasing the first lady inaugural gowns from different backgrounds and regions, First Ladies contribute to the diversity and richness of the fashion industry while also making statements about national identity and creativity.

Historical Significance of Inaugural Gowns: 

Inaugural gowns worn by First Ladies hold significant historical value and are often preserved and exhibited in museums as first ladies collection Smithsonian. These best inaugural gowns provide valuable insights into the style preferences of the time, as well as the personal tastes and influences of the First Ladies themselves. By examining these garments, historians and enthusiasts can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and political context surrounding each presidential term through first lady inaugural gowns.

Sparking Debates in Fashion and Society: 

The selection of inaugural gowns can spark lively debates and discussions about fashion, politics, and identity. Each gown choice carries symbolic weight, conveying messages about diplomacy, patriotism, and leadership. Additionally, the fashion choices of First Ladies can influence public perceptions and leave a lasting impact on popular culture.

Through the years, the first lady inaugural gowns have served as an opportunity for the first lady to show off her fashion and shine in carefully selected dresses that capture the imagination of a nation. With Lifestyle Blogger, we hope you can explore more interesting facts about fashion and lifestyle.