Inauguration Day Fashion Looks for Less

Inauguration Fashion

We rounded up some of our favorite outfits from the 2021 inauguration and sought out some equally fashionable but more affordable styles

The Inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris was a great day for democracy… and for fashion. With the inaugural ball canceled due to Covid, all eyes were on what the women and men of Washington were wearing during the ceremony itself. And let us tell you… they did not disappoint. For those of us whose phones aren’t ringing off the hook to have designers create us custom coats, we rounded up some very close looks (at a much cheaper price tag!) to have you looking presidential in no time. 

#1 Vice President Kamala Harris

Joe Biden Sworn In As 46th President Of The United States At U.S. Capitol Inauguration Ceremony

If there is one thing we know about Vice President Kamala Harris, it’s that the woman looks incredible in purple. So it’s no wonder she chose this stunning ensemble by young Black designer Christopher John Rogers. Now unfortunately for most of us, even if this coat was available to the public, it would probably set you back a few thousand dollars. Although, if you love the designer and purple is your color, this draped silk column gown could be right up your alley! Luckily, this very similar style from Diane von Furstenberg comes with a much lower price tag. Or if you’d prefer something a bit more pastel, this Gianni Feraud Lilac single breasted overcoat from ASOS is equally eye-catching.  

#2 former First Lady Michelle Obama

michelle obama - inauguration

Like Vice President Harris, Michelle Obama also opted for an eye-catching monochrome ensemble to celebrate the day. She opted for a plum sweater and palazzo pants with a matching overcoat by Sergio Hudson — the same designer who made Vice President Harris’s evening dress. If plum is your color, this coat from Banana Republic (or a more sporty version from L.L. Bean) could be just what you’re looking for. 

#3 Sen. Bernie Sanders

Bernie Sanders

Say what you want about Bernie Sanders’ style, but you’ve got to admit the man always looks comfortable. If this Burton Mens Gore-Tex Edgecomb 3 In 1 Jacket looks familiar to you… it’s because Bernie has gotten quite a bit of wear out of it over the years. Unfortunately, if you’re trying to get your hands on a pair of those grumpy grandpa mittens, you’re out of luck. They were made specially for him years ago by a Vermont campaign supporter. But don’t fret, we found some similar mittens picks we can’t wait to get our hands on. Also, these kids’ mittens from J. Crew are perfect look-a-like for the little one in your life.

#4 Amanda Gorman

Amanda Gorman

If you weren’t familiar with the first-ever 23-year-old youth poet laureate Amanda Gorman before yesterday, you certainly are now. Her stunning poem The Hill We Climb brought down the house. You may have noticed that her outfit was pretty darn amazing as well. Her striking yellow coat and red headband are both Prada, and of course, they both sold out immediately. But if statement yellow is what you’re going  for, this Sarabeth Puff-Sleeved Coat in Canary will work wonders in your wardrobe. Pair it with this red coral heart studded headband from Lele Sadoughi and you’re good to go! 

#5 Ella Emhoff

US-POLITICS-INAUGURATION

Designer and stepdaughter to Vice President Kamala Harris Ella Emhoff was serving us some major Wednesday Adams looks in a bedazzled Miu Miu houndstooth jacket at the inauguration, and we loved it. If you’ve got a cool $5K to spend, you can snag this very similar one from FarFetch. Or, for a slightly lower price tag, we suggest the Black and White Check York Coat from Reformation.

#6 Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez

Winter white can be hard to pull off, but if anyone can do it, it’s J Lo. The woman in white paid homage to just one designer for her performance at the inauguration: Chanel, Chanel, Chanel. This Reiss Everley Premium Trench Coat has the same fun swing and big collar as J Lo’s, but the off-white might make you feel a little less worried about blending into a snowbank. Pair with these Veronica Beard Woode Belted Linen Blend Wide Leg Pants, and you’re basically J Lo. 

#7 Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga is known for her bold fashion choices, and her outfit for the inauguration was no exception. To sing “The National Anthem,” the pop star donned a custom-made Schiaparelli Couture gown, and as usual, her look was the talk of the town. If the stunning red skirt is what caught your eye, then hopefully this $50 red maxi skirt from Lulus should tide you over until Schiaparelli Couture calls to make you your own designer gown. 

#8 First Lady Dr. Jill Biden

Joe Biden's Inauguration As 46th President Of The U.S.

Another queen of the monochrome! First lady Dr. Jill Biden rocked a terrifically teal ensemble by Markarian designer Alexandra O’Neill. While the design was made specifically by O’Neill for the first lady, if you’re willing to shell out on an investment piece the Vince Double Breasted Oversized Wool Blend Coat from Bloomingdales is stunningly similar. Or if you’re just looking to get your toes wet in the bright coat game, ths Helene Berman Ruth vinyl long belted coat in blue is a great place to start without spending a bundle. 

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