STYLE FILE: US PREZ INAUG SIGNALS INCLUSIVITY
The ceremony saw monochromatic layering with deeply symbolic hues
It’s hard to overlook the degree of symbolism in Kamala Harris’ sartorial pick to the inauguration ceremony of Presidentelect Joe Biden in Washington D.C, USA. Cutting a fine figure in a purple ensemble by Christopher John Rogers and Sergio Hudson (two emerging black designers), she managed to send out messages of inclusivity and bipartisanship. Apparently, the hue denotes a deeper meaning about collectivism since its made by combining red and blue, the tones representing Democratic and Republican parties. Hillary Clinton had also worn violet in her 2016 concession speech while dwelling on America’s political chasm.
Moreover, the choice of purple could be a nod to Shirley Chisholm, the first AfricanAmerican woman to run for President of the United States. Kamala wore her signature pearls, which connected her to her Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority days. However, this time, instead of her Converse Chuck Taylors, she opted for a pair of chic heels.
“Kamala’s look was classic and seemed well thought out. The warm coat layering was best suited for the weather,” says designer Neeta Lulla.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama, too, picked a matching marsala overcoat and look by Sergio Hudson comprising a turtleneck, a pair of wide-legged trousers, and a matching belt with a gold circle buckle cinched at her waist. “Michelle looked chic, but my only minor gripe was her giant belt buckle,” says designer Nachiket Barve.
Dr Jill Biden opted for a Markarian ensemble consisting of a tapered dress with a chiffon bodice and scalloped skirt. The marine blue was chosen to signify trust, confidence, and stability. While Hillary Clinton donned a bright purple suit and matching scarf, which she paired with a dark wool coat to keep warm, Laura Bush wore a powder blue coat with a dark lapel over a slate-gray dress and sheer tights for the occasion. “Laura’s new hairstyle was rather fresh and she looked relaxed in the balmy winter sun. The robins egg piece added to her appeal,” says Barve.
All in all there was an air of quiet elegance about the whole affair and most ladies harked back to the ladylike style of Queen Elizabeth.