Kamala Harris dazzles in tailored black coat while Usha Vance chooses peony pink for Trump's inauguration

WASHINGTON, DC: Former vice president Kamala Harris warmly greeted incoming Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha Vance at the White House ahead of President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025.

Harris and her husband Douglas Emhoff stood gracefully to welcome the couple as she marked the peaceful transition of power following her defeat in November’s election.

Kamala Harris and Usha Vance's contrasting outfit

Kamala Harris wore a tailored, double-breasted black coat, paired with black trousers, pointed-toe heels, and black leather gloves.

A black-and-white striped scarf added a subtle flair to her otherwise classic and understated ensemble.

Harris greeted JD Vance and his wife Usha Vance on the White House steps before posing for a photo.

Usha Vance, who married JD in 2014, made a statement with her peony pink outfit, a vibrant choice that contrasted with Harris’ muted tones.

Kamala Harris’ fashion legacy

Throughout her four years as Vice President, Kamala Harris’ fashion choices have been as much about function as symbolism.

Known for her preference for tailored pantsuits and neutral hues, Harris consistently highlighted American designers such as Christian Siriano, Prabal Gurung, and Tom Ford, according to Page Six.

Her signature accessory, a string of pearls, paid homage to her Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, whose founders are lovingly referred to as the "Twenty Pearls".

For President Joe Biden’s 2021 inauguration, Harris embraced bipartisanship with a purple coat and dress by Christopher John Rogers, a Black designer celebrated for his bold, colorful creations.

That evening, she wore a sequined tuxedo-style coat and cocktail dress by Sergio Hudson, another Black American designer.

Kamala Harris' notable recent looks

Kamala Harris’ style has often served as a platform for young designers and businesses of color.

Her “coconut brown” Chloe suit at the 2024 Democratic National Convention subtly referenced Barack Obama’s iconic tan suit while nodding to her viral “coconut tree” speech.

Similarly, her black sequined LaQuan Smith gown for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation event in September 2024 was a testament to her advocacy for inclusivity and empowerment.

LaQuan Smith reflected on the honor of dressing Harris, saying, “It’s such a huge moment and platform for me."

"She really set the tone by supporting young Black designers and opening doors for so many others," he added.

Fashion highlights at the 2025 inauguration

In addition to Kamala Harris and Usha Vance, the inauguration featured several other notable looks.

Returning First Lady Melania Trump wore a matching navy coat and hat by New York-based designer Adam Lippes, while Ivanka Trump turned heads in a sleek green suit, underscoring the event’s diverse sartorial choices.