Usha Vance dazzles. A senator in sneakers: 10 standout fashion moments from the inauguration
Inaugural fashion has long been a reflection of a new administration, showcasing the president and their agenda. This year continued that tradition.
President Donald Trump was accompanied by a range of notable fashion statements as he prepared for his second oath of office.
Here are the top 10 fashion highlights from the inauguration ceremony.
Usha Vance’s striking pink coat dress
Second Lady Usha Vance made a bold statement in a powder pink Oscar de la Renta coat dress, cinched at the waist with a delicate belt, paired with blush suede knee-high boots. She completed her look with large floral earrings and a chic clutch.
Melania Trump’s eye-catching hat
First Lady Melania Trump’s hat sparked significant conversation online.
Her oversized navy hat, which had a wide brim, brought a somber tone to her ensemble, leading many to liken it to funeral attire. At times, the brim shadowed her face, making it seem as though her eyes were obscured. The hat also humorously interrupted an attempted kiss from the president.
Senator Fetterman’s casual shorts
Senator John Fetterman from Pennsylvania embraced an everyman appeal by sitting front row during the inauguration in a Carhartt hoodie, gray shorts, and sneakers. His relaxed style starkly contrasted with other attendees like former President Bill Clinton and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who were dressed in high-end fashion.
Lauren Sanchez’s stylish white pantsuit
Lauren Sánchez, fiancée of Jeff Bezos, wore a white pantsuit that recalled Hillary Clinton’s 2017 look but with her own personal flair. The 55-year-old added a lace bustier under her jacket, which drew criticism online for being too risqué for the formal occasion.
Known for her bold fashion choices, Sánchez has previously worn everything from corsets to stunning gowns regardless of the official dress codes.
Potential fashionista Arabella Kushner
Thirteen-year-old Arabella Rose Kushner, daughter of Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, made a fashionable entrance in a camel-colored cape coat and matching pants alongside her mother and brothers. Demonstrating a chic monochromatic look, she seems to be stepping into her own fashion identity within her stylish family.
Carrie Underwood’s elegant simplicity
Perhaps 2025 will mark the rise of minimalist fashion for political figures and their guests? Country music performer Carrie Underwood sang “America the Beautiful” during the ceremony, gracefully transitioning to an a cappella version after a brief technical issue.
Known for her glamorous outfits, the 41-year-old American Idol winner surprised attendees in a light gray draped dress by Opificio Modenense, accessorized with elegant diamond rings and dangling diamond earrings.
Hakeem Jeffries in sneakers
Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries emanated a relaxed vibe as he sported sneakers with his suit and tie during Trump’s signing ceremony. He stood out as one of the few not wearing traditional dress shoes.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s meaningful collar
Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson made a significant fashion statement on Monday.
She wore a judicial collar made of cowrie shells, paired with matching earrings. According to Vogue, these shells have historical significance, having been used as currency in African cultures. Today, they symbolize resistance to slavery and are also linked to womanhood, possibly reflecting Jackson’s stance on the recent abortion rights debate, which she voted to uphold.
Mirabel’s playful bandage accessories
Usha and Vice President JD Vance’s 2-year-old daughter Mirabel captured hearts online by sporting bandages featuring popular cartoon characters like Bluey and Scooby-Doo, all while wearing an adorable red coat. The internet applauded her parents for allowing her personal style to shine through.
Jill Biden’s final tribute to unity
Jill Biden, the now-former First Lady, greeted Melania and Trump at the White House with warmth, dressed in a striking purple ensemble.
The former educator wore a bold, monochromatic purple Ralph Lauren outfit, complete with matching gloves and heels. Purple, a blend of red and blue, may symbolize her hope for bipartisan cooperation as the nation faces a challenging political landscape ahead.