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President and Mrs. Kennedy Arrive at Inaugural Ball

In this photograph by Abbie Rowe taken on January 20, 1961, newly-inaugurated President John F. Kennedy and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy arrive at the National Guard Armory in Washington, D.C. for the Inaugural Ball. Earlier in the day, President Kennedy was sworn in at the 35th President of the United States. Mrs. Kennedy wore a sleeveless, off-white gown with a silk sheer top covering a strapless bodice encrusted with brilliants and embroidered with silver thread by Ethel Frankau. Mrs. Kennedy collaborated with Frankau in the creation of the gown by offering suggestions on the sketches. Mrs. Kennedys look was finished off with a matching cape that closed at the neck and elbow-length gloves.
Photographer
Abbie Rowe
Date of Work
January 20, 1961
Type
Photograph
Credit
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum/NARA