RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — In a significant departure from tradition, Abigail Spanberger was inaugurated as Virginia's first female governor in an elegant white ensemble, symbolizing the women’s suffrage movement. While Virginia governors typically don morning suits, Spanberger chose to wear a long white coat with gold buttons and white gloves, a nod to the historical fight for women's rights that helped secure the vote for American women.

In Virginia, inauguration protocol usually dictates that men wear morning coats and women dress in dark suits; however, Spanberger decided against this tradition, saying in a prior interview with NPR, I’m not going to wear a morning coat, not to disappoint anyone.

Her choice of attire was not just a fashion statement but a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by suffragists who fought tirelessly for equality. During her inaugural address, Spanberger reflected on the significance of the day, expressing deep gratitude for the generations that fought for women's right to vote. She stated, I maintain an abiding sense of gratitude to those who work, generation after generation... to ensure women could be among those casting ballots, but who could only dream of a day like today.

With her leadership, Spanberger aims to inspire future generations while honoring those who paved the way for her historic role.