Beginning as early as the era of Martha Washington, people have paid close attention to what the First Lady wears on Inauguration Day. Every four years, the First Lady sets the tone with her outfit for the swearing-in ceremony—the formal governmental event where the president takes the oath of office—and her gown at the Inaugural Ball, the evening celebration.

Despite the often frigid temperatures of Inauguration Day during the outdoor ceremony, First Ladies rarely compromise on their style. They typically wear elegant, long overcoats with buttons, often in bright colors that stand out against their husbands’ formal suits. Their outfits are accessorized with long gloves, high heels, a hat, and sometimes statement jewelry.  For example, at her husband’s swearing in ceremony in 1961, Former First Lady Jackie Kennedy wore a light blue A-line dress with oversized buttons, a matching pillbox hat, and a fur muff to warm her hands.

Although their daytime attire may be formal business, the First Ladies wear long gowns during the Inaugural Ball. These gowns are floor-length and embody grace and sophistication.  They range from sleek silk designs to dazzling creations with thousands of sparkling crystals. For instance, in 1954 First Lady Mamie Eisenhower wore a pink dress embroidered with over 2,000 rhinestones. This year, Mrs. Trump chose an off-the-shoulder black and white floor length gown. Mrs. Vance, more in line with Mrs. Eisenhower, wore a sparkling blue gown.

Through color choices and designer selection, some use their fashion choices to represent luxury American brands like Nancy Reagan’s $46,000 James Galanos dress, while others opt for more accessible brands like Michelle Obama’s gloves from J-Crew. Both are paid for by the incoming President and Vice President, not the American taxpayer.

Beyond style, First Ladies’ fashion choices hold great significance, and convey messages about personal style, political priorities, and the image they wish to project to the nation.