Did Karen Pence and Her Blue Dress Steal the Show at the Inauguration Ball?

Vice President Mike Pence and his wife Karen at the Freedom Inaugural Ball.(Photo by Aaron P. Bernstein/Getty Images)
Vice President Mike Pence and his wife, Karen, at the Freedom Ball. (Photo: Aaron P. Bernstein/Getty Images)

All eyes were on the presidential procession during President Trump’s inauguration, and that includes getting a first look at some of the fashion choices of the new first family. However, it was Vice President Mike Pence’s wife, Karen, who according to some observers stole the show in a dazzling blue number at the evening inaugural ball.

Naturally, President Trump and first lady Melania Trump took to the dance floor first at the three inaugural balls: the Freedom Ball, the Liberty Ball, and the Salute Our Armed Services Ball. The Trumps kept things classy and simple, with the president in a black tux and the first lady in a white, flowing off-the shoulder number. But Karen Pence wore a blue, floor-length, off-the-shoulder gown that was a bold contrast to her husband’s black tux.

“Soooo disappointed in @Melania Trump inaugural ball gown!!! Loved @Karen Pence beautiful blue gown!!!” one person tweeted.

While some observers saw Karen Pence’s dress as a bold statement, others said they wished she had opted for a softer color choice. Indeed, the dress, which was designed by dressmakers in her home state of Indiana, stood out among a relatively drab sea of neutral tones.

“Umm…is Karen Pence wearing the hanging straps as part of her gown?” quipped another user.

Sarah Knochel, who owns Something Wonderful, a dressmaking business in Indianapolis, worked with Joyce Hittesdorf, Donna Christian, Cathy Runion, Whitney Luckenbill, and Ellen Blacketer to craft gowns for Karen Pence, her two daughters, and her daughter-in-law.

Related: Michelle Obama Wears Jason Wu for Her Final Appearance as First Lady

Related: ‘Everyone Is Clamoring to Dress Tiffany’ Trump, Says Designer

Related: Melania Trump Pays Homage to American Military Service Members With Ensemble

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.