First Lady Dr. Jill Biden‘s stunning blue gown at the state dinner for Kenya turned heads. She was looking stunning in a very patriotic sapphire blue tone that spoke volumes about what was ahead — a contentious election. The silhouette, created by Sergio Hudson, showed how his designs have defined the Biden administration, even though the world first saw his gorgeous work on a mass level on former First Lady Michelle Obama.
Anyone who watched Joe Biden sworn in on January 20, 2021, can probably remember the chic burgundy pantsuit worn by Michelle on that chilly day. She looked sophisticated and elegant on the steps of the Capital as she watched the U.S. usher in a new administration — that was Hudson’s memorable work. But he wasn’t done because his designs were later showcased by Vice President Kamala Harris at one of the inaugural balls. He had officially arrived.
WASHINGTON, DC – MAY 23: U.S. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden wait to greet Kenyan President William Ruto and his wife Rachel Ruto as they arrive for a State Dinner at the White House on May 23, 2024 in Washington, DC.
Andrew Harnik/Getty Images.
With so much at stake in November’s election, Jill is taking a page from Michelle’s playbook with fashion moments that resonate beyond the White House walls. Hudson’s designs take the first lady out of her comfort zone of Ralph Lauren, and into a more style-forward image. Hudson, calling it a “career milestone” to dress the current first lady, shared his inspiration for the state dinner gown with The New York Times. “A lot of African formal wear incorporates vibrant color and draping,” he explained, “so this particular style felt right for a state dinner with Kenya. I wanted Dr. Biden to feel glamorous and evoke royalty considering the guests of honor.”
It wouldn’t be the first time Jill has been influenced by Michelle and Jackie Kennedy before. Her floral Oscar de la Renta dress that she wore during Joe Biden’s victory speech on Nov. 7, 2020, followed in the footsteps of the women who came before her. He was the go-to designer for everyone from Nancy Reagan to Hillary Clinton, it’s what Vanity Fair described as “the White House’s love affair” because he knew how to “add a dash of glamour to government.”
With Hudson as the heir apparent, it will be fascinating to see how future first ladies will be influenced by prior administrations — and the designers who emerge as a result. Fashion may seem frivolous in the world of politics, but the women are often telling a story through the clothes that they wear.
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