It is not the “nerd prom” for a certain time. Once a popular butt of jokes about bad fashion (and not just from the evening’s comedian host), the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner has morphed in recent years into a less campy prelude and more composed at the Met Gala, which takes place a few days later. It really is entirely appropriate, given the subtext of imprisoned journalists around the world.
Yet the bar for serious style was raised by the mix of media, political and Hollywood figures who populate the guest list. Not that it’s just celebrities in the know about stylists and designer brands who are handling the entries. This year’s headliner, President Biden, has such a fondness for aviators that his accessories have practically become part of his political platform. He even turned them into material for his stand-up routine at last year’s dinner. (Hello, Dark Brandon.)
After all, what is a red carpet if not a photoshoot in better clothes? And how many politicians have been treated to a photo op that they didn’t want to use for a messaging moment? Just read his eyes, even his lips.
Case in point: Senator John Fetterman, who doubled down on his signature style by showing up in a black-tie version of his usual hoodie and shorts (white tie hoodie, black basketball shorts).
Although Mr. Fetterman may have been in the minority among his political peers, most of whom followed the president’s lead and opted for a traditional tuxedo, the creative black tie proved a talking point. See Billy Porter in a black sequinned kaftan over a classic white shirt; Questlove, in an artistically paint-splattered jacket; and SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher in a white brocade pantsuit.
Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris presented the fashion equivalent of a united front, making their red carpet debut as a couple in matching Harbison looks, along with Scarlett Johansson and husband Colin Jost, coordinating with Giorgio Armani.
Ultimately, however (and unsurprisingly), the majority vote turned grim — at least judging by Lara Trump, co-chair of the Republican National Committee, in a body-hugging one-sleeved dress with an asymmetrical, feathered neckline; Keri Russell from “The Diplomat,” in a sleeveless dress with matching scarf; White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, whose plunging look was covered in a scrim of tulle; and Vice President Kamala Harris, whose high-necked column of sequins fades to sheerness at shoulder level. As a rare bipartisan choice, it was something to enjoy at a restaurant.
