With a twinkle in her eye and coat, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden sparkled wearing a custom coat and dress set by New York designer Alexandra O’Neill, founder of the Markarian label. O’Neill was as surprised as anyone!
What You Need To KnowFirst Lady Dr. Jill Biden Walked out Wednesday wearing emerging NYC designer Alexandra O’Neill, surprising many, including O’Neill. O’Neill knew many designers had submitted new looks for Biden to wear, and she was only hopeful that the new First Lady would choose her sparkling sea blue ensemble created in NYC’s Garment Center.
Style Expert Denise Caldwell says Vice President Kamala Harris’ choice of the purple outfit by NYC-based designer Christopher John Rogers championed a Black designer and a color that reflects unity between red and blue — Republicans and Democrats. Fashion Expert Edward Barsamian says the bold modern choices reflect the politics of the day — progressive, forward-thinking ideas.
“I know they were considering several other designers when she walked out today; we were surprised. It’s so exciting, and it’s such an honor,” said O’Neill. The ensemble was made in the heart of Manhattan’s Garment Center. O’Neill, self-taught and studied art history at NYU, was one of several designers asked to create a new look for Dr. Biden. O’Neill finished the beading herself in her new West Village showroom.
“I think blue is a great color. It’s a very soothing color that signifies trust, stability, and confidence. I wanted her to stand out,” said the designer. And with celebrities and dignitaries on hand, the new First Lady did. As for Vice President Kamala Harris’ purple ensemble, style expert Denise Caldwell says it reflects the goal of the red and blue – Republicans and Democrats – coming together. She says Harris’s decision to be outfitted by New York-based designer Christopher John Rogers also made a statement.
“It was an ode to Black and American designers. It’s youthful, it’s fun, and supports emerging designers. And of course, the President, he didn’t disappoint, had on Ralph Lauren who is the quintessential American fashion,” said Caldwell of Harris’ choice and President Joe Biden.
Fashion Expert Edward Barsamian says we saw an elegant but approachable style. “It showed America; the best of our creativity and design,” said Barsamian. And he just loved Michelle Obama’s standout style in Aubergine. “Oh my gosh… she killed it. There’s not one moment where we don’t love what Michelle Obama is wearing.”
And clothes do not just make a fashion statement; they can also make a political statement. Barsamian sees Melania Trump’s fashion choices through a political lens. “When Melania Trump became First Lady, she said she wanted to be a traditional First Lady, someone who looks to the past, and her look that date January 2017 by Ralph Lauren was very retro,” said Barsamian about her powder blue outfit that day. She wore Sergio Hudson. Barsamian says the fashion choices of the new First Lady and Vice President present a contrast – a celebration of modern American fashion, creativity, and spirit.
