The Inaugural Ball is one of the First Lady‘s first official appearance in that role. And whether we like it or not, what she wears plays an integral part in shaping her public image for those four years to come.

So how did the First Ladies of the last 50 years deal with such an opportunity or, in some cases, such a challenge?

We spoke with fashion journalist and author of Everyday Icon: Michelle Obama and the Power of Style Kate Betts as well as Parsons fashion history professor Beth Dincuff. With their help and expertise, we’ve taken a thoughtful look back at the past 50 years of Inaugural Ball fashion and how it has defined the Presidency, the First Lady, and the nation.

Read on.