While the presidential inaugurations focus on celebrating a new political era, it's hard to leave aside the glamour of the first ladies who have made a mark over the years.
Apart from the elegant ensembles worn during the daytime at the inauguration ceremony, the nighttime looks are known to have a more vibrant and bolder approach.
As we approach Donald Trump's second inauguration, we take a look at Melania Trump's Hervé Pierre gown in 2017, as well as other stunning gowns worn by first ladies throughout history.
© BettmannMamie Eisenhower
Mamie Eisenhower was all smiles after President Dwight D. Eisenhower took the Oath of Office. The former first lady wore a pale pink sparkly full-length gown paired with matching white gloves for the special occasion. She completed the look with a pearl choker, matching earrings, and a bold red lip.
© BettmannJackie Kennedy
Jackie Kennedy wore a sleeveless, off-white gown by Oleg Cassini featuring a silk sheer top and a strapless bodice encrusted with “brilliants” and embroidered with silver thread. She paired the look with a matching cape and gloves.
© Dirck HalsteadNancy Reagan
Nancy Reagan wore a white beaded one-shouldered gown by James Galanos to the 1981 inaugural ball, featuring lace over silk satin.
© Wally McNameeHillary Clinton
Hillary Clinton collaborated with Oscar de la Renta for her daytime and nighttime looks at the presidential inauguration in 1997, including a sparkly form-fitting caped gown worn at the ball, celebrating her husband's presidency.
© Joe RaedleLaura Bush
Laura Bush decided to go for an all-red look during the evening after the presidential inauguration in 2005. She wore a red Chantilly lace gown designed by Michael Faircloth.
© Taylor HillMichelle Obama
Michelle Obama made a bolder choice in 2013, wearing a custom Jason Wu gown in red. Back in 2009, she also collaborated with the designer for her nighttime look, a one-shoulder gown in white.
© PoolMelania Trump
Melania Trump looked elegant in a white gown by French designer Hervé Pierre. The crisp white shoulder-bearing gown featured a red band around her waist.
