Kamala Harris Embraces Black Designers For Inauguration Day

Kamala Harris poignantly wore a custom Christopher John Rogers look on Wednesday as she was sworn in as the 49th vice president of the United States.

Kamala Harris‘ fashion choices early in her presidential campaign caught the attention of the public eye. Her relatable selections revitalized the notion of “everyday dressing” and brought it to the forefront of politics.

She was often spotted wearing well-tailored pantsuits or blazers and jeans. For accessories, she typically wears Converse sneakers and a strand of delicate pearl necklaces naturally as she is a member of the oldest Black sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha. 

Though she typically is seen donning comfortable pieces unless it’s a formal event, on inauguration day when she was to be sworn in as the first female vice president of the United States, she chose to wear a full look by Christopher John Rogers, a Black designer from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Rogers’ designs are influenced by his Southern roots. Harris and former First Lady Michelle Obama also wore Sergio Hudson, the vice president opted for heels by him, while Obama wore a plum look featuring pants, a sweater, a coat, and a stunning belt. Hudson, also a Black designer who also hails from the South with roots in South Carolina was a longtime collaborator of Obama’s stylist Meredith Koop.

The images and live footage that captured Harris today are not only a monumental endorsement of Black designer, but they’re also impactful as she’ll become the first Black and South Asian woman to hold office.

On Tuesday night, Kamala Harris wore a custom Pyer Moss coat that was met with praise. During those moments Kerby Jean-Raymond received yet another well-earned co-sign. It sends a message that Harris and her stylist are paying attention to the messages that surround her wardrobe choices. Harris is rumored to be working with celebrity stylist Karla Welch. 

Though she’s chosen to wear Carolina Herrera and European staples Valentino and Max Mara it’s refreshing to see Harris embrace Black talent who are often unsung heroes of fashion. Harris’ endorsement is culturally significant as it allows the designers to bust through the glass ceiling that often holds them back from funding, press, and more.