Wednesday, January 20, 2021

Michelle Obama’s Purple Look Was One Of Many Nods To Shirley Chisholm On Inauguration Day

In a passing of the torch of sorts, Barack and Michelle Obama attended the 2021 Presidential Inauguration of Joe Biden on Wednesday. And like she did during her husband’s presidency four years earlier, the former First Lady arrived at the scene in fine fashion form. 

For the occasion, Obama wore a plum-colored three-piece ensemble — including a turtleneck, coat, and wide-leg, belted trousers — by Los Angeles-based Black designer Sergio Hudson. While the look was custom-made for Obama, the fall ‘20 ready-to-wear pieces it stemmed from are currently available to shop. But it wasn’t just the impeccably tailored look or the label attached to it that were notable. Many took special note of the purple color, too.

Purple, like white and orange, has long been used to symbolize the fight for femme equality in politics. During the Women’s Suffrage Movement, purple was worn by women as a symbol of their “unswerving steadfastness to a cause,” as well as their “constancy to purpose,” according to the National Park Service.

More significantly to this historic occasion, as the WWD pointed out, it was the color Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman ever to be elected into Congress, wore when she announced her candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination on January 25, 1972. Though she lost in the primaries to George McGovern, Chisholm became a source of inspiration for many women politicians today, including Rep. Barbara Lee, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Kamala Harris, who on Wednesday, became the first woman Vice President of the United States of Black and South Asian descent.

Obama wasn’t the only one to wear the hue on Inauguration Day. Harris’ look included a bright purple two-button, structured coat and a matching dress by New York-based Black designer Christopher John Rogers. Hillary Clinton, a former Presidential candidate and Secretary of State, also wore a purple pantsuit by Ralph Lauren. A day earlier, on the eve of the Inauguration, First Lady Jill Biden wore a purple dress-and-coat duo by New York designer Jonathan Cohen to a COVID-19 memorial. 

Though purple, the color created as a result of mixing red and blue, has also been known in politics as the color of bipartisanship, Harris has long credited her determination in politics to Chisolm. Obama, Clinton, and other purple-clad women in the crowd also honored Chisolm and showed their support of bipartisanship through Wednesday’s looks.

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J.Lo’s All-White Inauguration Day Look Has Historical Significance — & Features Pearls

To ring in the next four years, Jennifer Lopez sang three — well, technically two and a quarter — songs at the inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris on Wednesday. The setlist included the usual inaugural patriotic fare (“This Land Is Your Land,” by Woody Guthrie, who, according to Twitter, “hated” Donald Trump’s father; as well as “America the Beautiful”) and a quick bit from Lopez’s 1999 track “Let’s Get Loud,” a total bop that deserves a comeback. For the performance, which Twitter called “perfect for the moment we are living in,” the singer-actress wore head-to-toe Chanel.

But while J.Lo’s tweed coat and sequined wide-leg pants were certainly worthy of praise, the luxury label they bore had little to do with what made her Inauguration Day look so powerful. The fact that every item featured was suffragette white, however, that is a different story entirely.

Lopez — with her longtime stylists Rob Zangardi and Mariel Haenn — chose pieces from Chanel’s fall ‘19 (the blouse and pants) and fall ‘20 (the coat) ready-to-wear collections, with accessories, including pearl (a Harris signature!) CC earrings and a matching chain belt, pulled from years past. Despite them coming from different seasons, the pieces fit together to form a stunning outfit in a hue that has a long history in politics.

Dating back to the United States suffrage movement of the early 1900s, white has been worn as a symbol of resistance against gender inequality. In 1913, more than 8,000 women wore the color during a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C., during which they demanded a constitutional amendment allowing them the right to vote. More than 50 years later, Shirley Chisholm wore white when she became the first Black woman elected into Congress in 1968. In 1984, Geraldine Ferraro wore white as she accepted her nomination as the first female vice presidential candidate. Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential run was full of white ensembles.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez wore white as she was sworn in as the youngest woman ever elected to Congress in 2019. In February of last year, House Democratic women arrived at Trump’s State of the Union address all wearing white as a nod to the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th amendment. Later, in October, the symbolic color appeared again on Ocasio-Cortez, a participant in the SOTU protest, on the cover of Vanity Fair.

Lastly, on November 9 — a day we won’t soon forget — Kamala Harris took the stage at the Chase Center in Wilmington, DE, to give her acceptance speech following the news that she and Joe Biden were to become the next Vice President and President, respectively, of the United States. Her choice to wear white was again significant — especially because the early suffrage movement largely left Black and other women of color out of the conversation.

As someone who identifies as Latinx, with parents that hail from Puerto Rico, Lopez has also been left out of conversations. So, as one of many examples of female excellence who were present at today’s celebration, it comes as no surprise that Lopez would nod at the suffrage movement on Inauguration Day — in Chanel, no less.

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37 Valentine’s Day Gifts For The Guy In Your Life

Valentine’s Day can befuddle the best of us. On top of the whole holiday serving as a dedicated relationship reminder (a.k.a. whether we have one or not), there’s an added tricky-gifting component too — a February 14 shopping tradition that can become even further complicated when the Y-chromosomes in our lives aren't longing for standard floral arrangements or heart-shaped chocolate boxes.

But there'll be no need for present drama in 2021, because we’ve got the dude-approved goods lined up right here to save you from last-minute gifting fiascos. Scroll on for our curated hit-list of creative gadgets to unique fashion finds and sleek grooming products that your main man (whether friend, family member or S.O.) will adore. And for those who are opting out of V-Day altogether, the 37 stylish finds ahead are all still single-and-fabulous-approved.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team, but if you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Man Crates Jerky Heart


This year, say it with...beef jerky. If your man has a special place in his heart for dried, smoked meats, then this gift box will surely delight.

Man Crates Jerky Heart, $, available at Man Crates

Cable Guys The Child Device Holder


This miniature Baby Yoda is perfectly sized to hold gaming controllers and iPhones, and uses the Force to charge (okay, fine, an included 6 ft micro USB cable) your tech devices, too.

Cable Guys The Child Device Holder, $, available at Urban Outfitters

High Camp Firelight Flask


Whether you want to enjoy a cup of cocoa while camping/#glamping, or want to keep your spiked slushie frozen while in the hot tub, this double-insulated stainless flask can handle it all.

High Camp Firelight 375 Flask, $, available at Huckberry

Polo Bear Dress Sock Gift Set


The OG Polo mascot skiing and wearing sunglasses is certainly a look that someone special will treasure.


Polo Ralph Lauren Polo Bear Dress Sock Gift Set, $, available at Ralph Lauren

Malin + Goetz Saving Face Skincare Set


Since he's such a big fan of your top shelf bathroom setup, spoil him with his own set of luxe clean cleansing goods.

Malin + Goetz Saving Face Skin Care Set, $, available at Nordstrom

Theragun MINI Portable Deep Tissue Massager


Theragun's mighty massager has taken the world by storm, and it's easy to see why: The device is a magic wand for sore, overworked muscles, making it a great gift if you're splurging on your fitness-loving partner this year.

Theragun MINI Portable Deep Tissue Massager, $, available at Walmart

Bevel Shaving Kit


Keep his beard looking neat with this super-slick shaving set from Bevel. Disposable razors who?

Bevel Shaving Kit, $, available at Amazon

The Office: Antics And Adventures From Dunder Mifflin


If rewatching The Office is among your favorite pastimes, then this pocket sized superfan gift will be an amazing present for the Jim Halpert to your Pam Beesly.


Urban Outfitters The Office: Antics and Adventures from Dunder Mifflin, $, available at Urban Outfitters

Lou Malnati's Spreading Hearts Charity Pizza Pack


Break his heart into shareable pieces.

Lou Malnati's Spreading Hearts Charity Pizza Pack, $, available at Goldbelly

Lululemon ABC Jogger


If your man is still wearing his college sweatpants around the apartment, it may be time for an upgrade. This pair from Lululemon's exclusive collection with Huckberry are just as soft as his favorite worn-in pair, but won't embarrass you when you're at the grocery store.

lululemon ABC Jogger, $, available at Huckberry

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack


If your man is always on the move, help him get there in ease and style with this lightweight-yet-sturdy backpack made from 100% recycled materials.

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack, $, available at Everlane

Truff Hot Sauce Variety Pack


If your bud appreciates the sauce, gift him this treasure — a trio of fancy-ass truffle hot sauce. He'll never spend this much on himself for condiments and will appreciate your understanding that he may not want to share.

TRUFF Hot Sauce Variety Pack, $, available at Amazon

Uniqlo x J.W Anderson Beanie


Beanies are like friends: You can never have too many. Double down on cozy with this heattech version from the Uniqlo x J.W. Anderson collection.

Uniqlo x J.W. Anderson Heattech Knitted Cap, $, available at Uniqlo

Homesick Date Night Candle


Set the mood for a cozy night in with this woodsy candle that features notes of patchouli, fig, cashmere, and red current.


Homesick Candles Date Night Candle, $, available at Homesick Candles

Mini Keg Beer Making Kit


Transform his love of beer into a constructive activity — this reusable kit will have him brewing up and bottling his very own IPA at-home in time for V-Day dinner.

Uncommon Goods Mini Keg Beer Making Kit - IPA, $, available at Uncommon Goods

SuitSupply Neat Silk Tie


Math nerds, intellects, and Kornacki fans alike will appreciate that on closer inspection, the repeat pattern on this tie is indeed Pi.

SuitSupply Neat Silk Tie, $, available at Nordstrom

Bob Ross Happy Little Tree Mints


Share these with your work husband or as a token gift of positivity.

Bob Ross Happy Little Tree Mints, $, available at Amazon

Skagen Men's Jorn Minimalistic Stainless Steel Quartz Watch


Danish brand Skagen makes some of the most stylish, affordable watches around. If you're looking to give a subtle hint to your perpetually late mate, try this Amazon gem, which clocks in at just $69. (Nice.)


Skagen Men's Jorn Minimalistic Stainless Steel Quartz Watch, $, available at Amazon

Jaxon Lane Bro Sheet Mask (set of 4)


Do you even sheet mask, Bro?

Jaxon Lane Bro Sheet Mask x 4, $, available at MR PORTER

The Daily High Club Box


Bless your mans with one of 2021's most wanted goods: a monthly box of curated smoking essentials, including everything from specialty rolling papers to rolling tips, premium matches, and a few other "goodies."

The Daily High Club El Primo Box, $, available at The Daily High Club

Urbanstems The Geoff


Brighten up any space with this adorable air plant (a suitable choice if you're far from having a green thumb) in a whimsical giraffe planter.

Urbanstems The Geoff, $, available at Urbanstems

Trailtopia Ramen Noodles Pack


Your adventurer deserves some sustenance for his next trip out on the trails.


Trailtopia GF Ramen Noodles, $, available at Back Country

Guss' Pickles


This gift of pickles from America's oldest family-run pickle shop comes in a gallon bucket so it should be reserved for true enthusiasts only.

Guss' Pickles NY Fresh Kosher Dill Pickles - 1 Gallon, $, available at Goldbelly

Maude Rise Condoms


Because nothing is sexier than keeping things safe in the bedroom.

Maude rise, $, available at Maude

Veja V-12 Sneaker


Upgrade his ancient, formerly-white sneaks with a responsibly-made pair of leather V-12s (or a vegan option) from French label Veja.

VEJA V-12 Sneaker, $, available at Nordstrom

Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon


Getting your partner roses may be Valentine's Day 101, but a bottle of Four Roses? This year, we're making the case for raising a glass of bourbon sweeter than a first kiss.

Four Roses Bourbon Single Barrel, $, available at Drizly

Frank & Oak Relaxed Tee


If you've recently relegated one his tees into one your favorite sleep shirts, gift him this sustainable organic cotton T-shirt from Frank & Oak's minimal collection as a upgraded replacement.

Frank & Oak Good Cotton Relaxed Tee, $, available at Frank & Oak

Nintendo Switch Lite - Turquoise


Win 10,000 relationship points by gifting him what's likely been collecting dust in his Amazon wish list since last year: A portable, sleek Nintendo Switch Lite — and if you're feeling extra generous, add in a game for him to enjoy.

Nintendo Switch Lite - Turquoise, $, available at Amazon

Uncommon Goods Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit


Bring the heat this Valentine's Day with a DIY hot sauce kit that allows you to get creative in the kitchen. (Bonus points if you put your taste buds to the test with an at-home Hot Ones challenge.)

Uncommon Goods Make Your Own Hot Sauce Kit, $, available at Uncommon Goods

Bellroy Note Sleeve Wallet


Dads, grandpas, husbands, VIP buds... they'll all appreciate this high quality, low on bulky wallet. It's made of superior leather, comes with a coin holder, secret pocket, is RFID-blocking , comes in ten colors and a three-year warranty. Boom.

Bellroy Note Sleeve, $, available at Bellroy

3D Laser Cut Metal Model Building Kit


Slip this flat metal model building kit into your favorite hobbyist's V-Day card. We sourced this gift idea from The Grommet's small business section and we're super impressed with the options from a Ford Mustang to the Brooklyn Bridge.

Metal Earth 3D Laser Cut Metal Model Building Kit, $, available at The Grommet

Kin Euphorics Dream Light Nightcap


If he's on a new-year wellness kick, surprise him with a trending bottle of botanical elixir that's specially crafted to encourage dreamier sleep. Kin's Dream Light "nightcap" is made from a blend of earthy adaptogens and serene nootropics (like Reishi mushrooms) that can be mixed with milk or water before bed.

Kin Euphorics Dream Light Nightcap, $, available at Kin Euphorics

Seinfeld George Costanza Valentine's Card


If you and your partner like to keep things simple with a thoughtful card exchange, look to Etsy: After all, nothing says "romance" quite like George Costanza striking a sensual pose.

Influential People George Costanza Valentines Day Card, $, available at Etsy

Portable Cell Phone Touch Speaker


No more Bluetooth #struggles here — this minimally-designed wireless speaker magically connects to your phone when put in direct contact, allowing you to instantly blare your favorite songs (and let all your friends take a turn playing DJ) without any technical difficulties.

On Trend Goods Portable Cell Phone Induction Speaker, $, available at Amazon

Warby Parker Downing Sunglasses


These Warby Parker sunnies are the chicest way to shield eyes from UV rays. Pro tip: Shop them now so he can have them for your next trip together.

Warby Parker Downing Antique Shale Fade with Green-Grey lenses, $, available at Warby Parker

Thursday Boot Company Men's Rugged & Resilient Captain 6" Lace-up Boot


If you're going to splurge this year, treat him to a pair of timeless leather boots that will only get better with age. (Just like him!)


Thursday Boot Co. Men's Rugged & Resilient Captain 6" Lace-up Boot, $, available at Amazon

Merry Color Nicholas Cage Mermaid Pillow


An oldie but a goodie.

Merrycolor Nicolas Cage Magic Reversible Sequin Pillowcase, $, available at Amazon
This photo history of the Nike SB Dunk is the stuff of a sneaker-heads' coffee table book dreams.

LiveMusic! HearSafe High Fidelity Earplugs


As recommended by our Shopping Director's composer husband, these were the best set of earplugs he's ever purchased. If you have a professional or enthusiastic musician in your life, they'll appreciate keeping their working assets (their ears!) protected while still enjoying a live show. The set comes with two pairs of earplugs at different strengths and a handy holder that can attach to his keychain so he's never without protection again.

LiveMusic! HearSafe High Fidelity Ear Plugs for Musicians, $, available at Amazon
For outdoorsy types or for those who simply like the smell of the outdoors. Outdoor Fellow has six scents that include: winter fir, sandalwood + pine needle, mulled wine, and more. Plus, 5% of all proceeds go to The Trust For Public Land — an organization that fights to keep public lands just that.
A true hot sauce swag essential. Trust.

Calvin Klein Modern Cotton Boxer Brief 2-Pack


There's nothing wrong with a practical, affordable gift — when's the last time he invested in some new underwear? — and your male S.O. will feel like he's the star of his own #MyCalvins campaign with this two-pack of candy-colored briefs.

Calvin Klein Modern Cotton Boxer Brief 2-Pack, $, available at Urban Outfitters
A draw-dropping gift with *oof,* a price tag to match. But, if you're in the market, this very special, limited edition collaboration between The Skateroom and the estate of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat is a W-O-W gift he'll admire for years to come.
Throw a little loving and stylish shade his way this Valentine’s Day.
This classic, red-striped shirt feels like a timely buy for the February 14 occasion.
For the ANIMAL in your life.
Skip the heart-shaped chocolate box and invest in a sweet ball cap instead — this one's by Paris-based design house Ami, which also means friend in French — how suiting.
This comb-meets-bottle opener that can fit inside a wallet is the sweetest gift he never knew he needed.
What kind of pants have 1,921 stellar reviews? Damn good comfortable pants that he will never ever want to take off. These are unassuming luxury.
For the napper in your life who also travels on the reg.
Any audiophile worth his salt is going to be both protective of his ears and keen to go to live shows. Vibes reusable earplugs are designed for sound quality. They allow you to hear sound clearly, just at a quieter volume.
If you really love that traveler, upgrade his suitcase gear with this tech-savvy stunner.
Make sure he looks super fly at that next pickup game.
The outdoorsy-hipster in your life will appreciate this super cozy pullover.
Because he deserves a top shelfy too. Plus, this go-to UK site for men's grooming and skincare offers free shipping to the US on all the brands you need to know (with competitive prices to boot).
Art lovers will enjoy this high-brow puzzle that can be mounted and framed once complete.
What time is it? Time for him to embrace a more timeless wristwatch.
Keep him on his toes with these on-trend hiking-hybrid trainers.
A collector knife used for decades by the French Foreign Legion, and perhaps on a future camping trip?

We suggest heading to Huckberry in general to see what's in store at this mecca for guys who like gear.
Help him to cultivate and grow his hot sauce obsession.
A clean-lined backpack that has a padded laptop compartment and zippered pockets inside and out. Everything down to the black on black label and leather trim is built for a modern man.
Make that beard feel as great as it looks.
This limited edition Game of Thrones-themed Johnnie Walker "White Walker" Blended Scotch Whisky is gimmicky for sure — but he's going to love it.
Sometimes it's best to give him what he's been asking for.
The dad hat of all dad hats.
Socks are not a lame gift! And this new brand that creates styles for every dude’s foot size (whether he’s a 7 or 17) proves it.

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