The famously stylish and sociable hostess Dolley Madison was the first First Lady to host an official inauguration ball, in 1809. In her richly embroidered cream dress, with a substantial bustle, she set the tone for generations to come by pulling out all the stops when choosing her inaugural gown.

As the world watches for the transition of power on Inauguration Day, the fashion industry eyes the ensembles of the first ladies

The designer, Eric Javits, told Vanity Fair that his “greatest honor” was almost a total fiasco, thanks to a snow storm.