Presidential Inaugurations: A Look at First Ladies' Iconic Styles

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Newly minted U.S. First Lady Melania Trump stole the show at her husband's Donald Trump second inauguration with her impeccable style, wearing a silk wool Adam Lippes coat and skirt with an ivory.

"The tradition of the presidential inauguration embodies the beauty of American democracy, and today we had the honor to dress our first lady, Mrs. Melania Trump," said Lippes in a statement. "Mrs. Trump's outfit was created by some of America's finest craftsmen, and I take great pride in showing such work to the world."

Here are the looks that U.S. First Ladies chose for a day like today in the last 50 years.

First Ladies fashion on Inaguration Day

Pat Nixon (1973)

Thelma Catherine "Pat" Nixon, known for her striking red hair, surprised everyone at her husband Richard Nixon's second inauguration in 1973. She donned a teal blue coat with fur details on the collar, capturing the spotlight with its elegant design.

Betty Ford (1974)

In 1974, Gerald Ford assumed the presidency, making Betty Ford the new First Lady. At the inauguration, she wore a pastel-blue dress and jacket ensemble accented with white details and a corsage of white flowers pinned to her chest.

Rosalynn Carter (1977)

President Jimmy Carter's wife, Rosalynn Carter embraced a practical yet stylish look for her husband's inauguration. She wore a dark aqua coat paired with dark brown gloves and knee-high boots, ensuring the coat remained the focal point.

Nancy Reagan (1981 & 1985)

Before entering politics alongside her husband Ronald Reagan, Nancy Reagan was a Hollywood star familiar with glamour. For the inauguration, she wore an iconic red suit and matching hat designed by Cuban designer Adolfo. The vibrant shade became so synonymous with her that it was later named "Reagan Red." At her husband's second inauguration, she wore another Adolfo outfit, but this time, it was a striking blue melton coat with gold buttons and a gold chain belt.

Barbara Bush (1989)

Barbara Bush, known for her timeless style, chose a classic blue coat designed by Bill Blass for her husband, George H.W. Bush's inauguration. She accessorized the coat with a multi-strand pearl necklace and matching earrings, embodying grace and elegance.

Hillary Clinton (1997)

Hillary Clinton, a prominent political figure in her own right, turned heads at Bill Clinton's second inauguration in 1997. She wore a coral turtleneck dress and knee-length coat by Oscar de la Renta, exuding sophistication and poise.

Laura Bush (2001)

Laura Bush, celebrated for her understated elegance, wore a blue dress and matching single-breasted coat by designer Michael Faircloth at George W. Bush's inauguration. The outfit featured brown accents on the lapels, gloves, and shoes for a polished look.

Michelle Obama (2009 & 2013)

Michelle Obama, known for her fashion-forward choices, made memorable appearances at both of Barack Obama's inaugurations. In 2009, she wore a green dress and coat by Isabel Toledo, complemented by olive-green gloves. In 2013, she opted for a dark blue checkered coat by Thom Browne, accessorized with black boots, a sequined belt, and magenta gloves.

Melania Trump (2017)

Melania Trump, who was then transitioning from a career in modeling to becoming First Lady, displayed her impeccable style at Donald Trump's inauguration. She paid homage to Jackie Kennedy with a pale blue Ralph Lauren dress and matching bolero jacket. Her look was completed with long gloves and Manolo Blahnik heels, emphasizing a classic and sophisticated aesthetic.

Jill Biden (2021)

Jill Biden, a lifelong educator, made her fashion statement at Joe Biden's inauguration in a custom blue dress and coat by Alexandra O'Neill for Markarian. The ensemble featured Swarovski crystal detailing and was paired with gloves and a mask, reflecting the ongoing pandemic.

Melania Trump - 2025

All eyes are now on Melania Trump, who resumed her role as First Lady this January 20. Known for her refined taste, her inauguration outfit was seen as a sign of future fashion statements coming from the White House.