Jill Biden’s Inauguration Night Dress Had a Secret, Powerful Meaning

Dr. Jill Biden, first lady, capped off a memorable day of inauguration fashion with a white coat and matching dress designed by Gabriela Hearst. That dress, it turns out, actually has a secret, unifying meaning.

Per a press release from the designer, Biden’s inauguration night dress had embroidery that highlighted the official flowers from every state and territory in the United States. Biden’s cashmere coat worn over the dress also featured the flowers.

The message? Unity. All the state flowers working as one to create something beautiful.

“Unity is the main inspiration for the creation of the ensemble,” Hearst wrote on Instagram. “Unity makes strength and it is needed for the road ahead.”

Unity was a big theme during January 20th’s inauguration festivities. In his first address as president, Joe Biden told Americans, “With unity we can do great things. Important things. We can right wrongs. We can put people to work in good jobs. We can teach our children in safe schools. We can overcome this deadly virus. We can reward work, rebuild the middle class, and make health care secure for all. We can deliver racial justice. We can make America, once again, the leading force for good in the world.”

President Biden also said later in his speech “without unity, there is no peace, only bitterness and fury,” and, “This is our historic moment of crisis and challenge, and unity is the path forward.”

Dr. Biden also offered some very encouraging words on inauguration day. “Every four years, we celebrate the beginning of a new administration,” she said. “It’s the start of a bright new chapter. A time for us all to come together. I’m so grateful to all who worked to create an incredible day—especially in this uniquely difficult year.”

Here’s hoping these words—and Biden’s dress—are a sign of what’s to come.

Originally Appeared on Glamour