Carolina Herrera and Oscar de la Renta — two iconic American fashion houses founded by charismatic, Latinx immigrants who became household names in American fashion with signature styles, impeccable tastes, and endless elegance.

Both brands are familiar to American politics. Between them, Mrs. Herrera and the late Mr.de la Renta created iconic looks for First Ladies including Jacqueline Kennedy, Nancy Reagan, Hillary Clinton, Laura Bush, Michelle Obama, and Melania Trump.

And last Saturday, their names were back on the political stage. History-making Vice President-elect Kamala Harris selected a white suit from Carolina Herrera, now under the creative direction of CFDA member Wes Gordon. Dr. Jill Biden, the nation’s next First Lady, wore a blue floral vine dress by Oscar de la Renta, designed by CFDA members Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia.

This was an important moment worth noting. Whether intended or not, there was much symbolism in the choices, ie. a nod to suffragettes, immigrant success stories, and more. But equally important, each choice made a significant statement for American fashion which has been hit hard by Covid-19’s economic fallout.

It’s an endorsement the industry needed – now more than ever.