First Lady of the United States Jill Biden formally presented the ocean blue wool tweed Markarian dress and matching coat she wore to the 2021 presidential inauguration day to the Smithsonian’s First Ladies collection on Wednesday.
During the induction ceremony at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington, DC., Dr. Biden presented both her custom Markarian daytime look and her evening-wear ensemble from Gabriela Hearst‘s eponymous label. She also gave the matching masks, which will serve as a remembrance to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hearst and Markarian founding designer Alexandra O’Neill joined the First Lady in Washington.
For the occasion, Dr. Biden wore a baby blue and metallic gold floral-print midi Markarian dress to the presentation, blending the elements of both of her Inauguration Day looks, (Markarian blue and the floral motif of her Hearst creation).
Continuing a 100-year tradition, Dr. Biden’s garments join those of Martha Washington, Frances Cleveland, Lou Hoover, Jacqueline Kennedy, Laura Bush and Michelle Obama in the exhibit filled with over two dozen pieces.
At the 2021 ceremony, Dr. Biden’s Markarian dress featured an illusion bust and a jeweled neckline, and was hand-embellished with pearls and crystals in a delicate floral pattern. Her matching overcoat was accented by a darker blue velvet collar and cuffs, designed by O’Neill.
Dr. Biden’s Gabriela Hearst evening look was an ivory silk wool midi cady dress with a coordinating double-breasted cashmere coat, featuring ethereal floral embroidery representing the federal flowers from each of the 50 states and U.S. territory as a symbol of togetherness.
Her inaugural ensembles will join the likes of Kennedy’s white Oleg Cassini gown and Obama’s one-shouldered Jason Wu confection.
The museum is open daily between 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. with free admission.
