Honestly, the White House has seen a lot of fashion. We’ve had the Jackie O pillbox hats, the Michelle Obama sleeveless shifts, and plenty of "safe" black-tie gowns that blend into the wallpaper. But when Lauren Sanchez walked into the state dinner for Japan’s Prime Minister in April 2024, the internet basically had a collective meltdown.
She wore red. Bright, unapologetic, "look at me" red.
It wasn't just the color, though. The Lauren Sanchez red dress was a $2,300 Rasario gown that featured a corset-style bodice, sheer lace at the midsection, and an off-the-shoulder neckline that leaned more "red carpet bombshell" than "diplomatic dinner."
People were divided. One half of the internet was shouting about "protocol" and "etiquette," while the other half was busy trying to find where they could buy a dupe of the lace-detailed bodice. It was a moment that redefined what we expect from the partners of the world's wealthiest men.
The Designer Behind the Look: Rasario’s Bold Choice
Most people want to know who made it. The gown was from Rasario, a brand known for making women look like they just stepped out of a high-fashion fever dream. It’s a label that specializes in "evening-wear with an edge," which is basically Sanchez’s entire vibe.
The dress itself was a mix of textures. You had the structured, boned corset—which is kind of a signature for Lauren these days—paired with delicate floral lace that showed off a bit of skin. The skirt was a long, silky material that pooled at her feet, and she paired the whole thing with metallic open-toe heels and a silver clutch.
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It’s interesting because, usually, guests at these events try to avoid outshining the First Lady or the visiting dignitaries. Sanchez, however, went the opposite direction. She wore something that was, frankly, more daring than what most celebrities wear to the Oscars.
Breaking the "Invisible" Spouse Rule
There’s this unspoken rule that if you’re the partner of a billionaire like Jeff Bezos, you’re supposed to disappear into the background in a "quiet luxury" beige sweater. Sanchez doesn't do beige.
Whether it’s the Lauren Sanchez red dress at the White House or her more recent appearances in vintage Vivienne Westwood, she’s signaling that she isn't interested in being a trophy that sits quietly in the corner. She’s a pilot. She’s a journalist. She’s an author. And she clearly enjoys the power of a "statement" outfit.
Critics on social media, including some pretty harsh takes from figures like Katie Couric (who later called Sanchez's Vogue shoot "tacky"), often point to these choices as being "inappropriate" for the venue. But here’s the thing: Bezos looked thrilled. He was in a classic black tuxedo, letting her take the spotlight.
A History of Seeing Red
If you follow her style at all, you know this wasn't her first time leaning into the fire-engine aesthetic. Just a month before the White House event, she hit the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in a Lever Couture gown that was also—you guessed it—bright red. That one was even more dramatic, with a ruffled sheer train that looked like a cloud of crimson tulle.
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Why does she keep coming back to this color?
- Psychology of Color: Red is the color of power, passion, and confidence. In a room full of navy suits and black gowns, red is a visual siren.
- Skin Tone: Let’s be real, the warm undertones of red look incredible on her.
- The "Main Character" Energy: You don't wear a red corset to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue if you want to stay under the radar.
The Controversy vs. The Reality
The "backlash" was mostly centered on the sheer panels. Some etiquette experts argued that showing any hint of a corset or midriff at a state dinner is a breach of protocol. They compared her to more traditional figures like Melania Trump or Usha Vance, who typically favor more covered-up silhouettes for political functions.
But fashion in 2026 has shifted. The lines between "celebrity" and "public figure" have blurred so much that the old rules are kind of falling apart. When you’re worth hundreds of billions, the "rules" of what’s appropriate are whatever you decide they are.
How to Get the Lauren Sanchez Aesthetic (Without the Billionaire Budget)
If you’re looking to channel that specific Lauren Sanchez red dress energy for your next big event, you don't necessarily need a Rasario budget. The key elements are actually pretty easy to replicate if you know what to look for.
- Look for Structure: You want a bodice that has visible boning or a "corset" look. It’s what gives that snatched silhouette.
- Balance the Sheer: If you’re worried about the White House level of "racy," look for dresses with lace overlays that have a nude lining. You get the look without the exposure.
- High-Contrast Accessories: She almost always goes for metallic or silver accents. Avoid black accessories with a bright red dress; it can look a bit "holiday party." Silver or gold makes it feel like high-end couture.
- The Hair and Makeup: Notice she kept her hair sleek and straight for the state dinner. When the dress is loud, the hair should be "quiet." A smoky eye and a glossy nude lip are her go-to's for a reason—they don't compete with the gown.
What Most People Miss
The most "human" part of that whole evening wasn't even on the red carpet. After the dinner, Sanchez posted a photo to her Instagram of her back at home, still in the dress, eating a slice of pizza.
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It was a total "how it started vs. how it ended" moment. It reminds you that despite the $2 million engagement ring and the custom designer gowns, at the end of the day, even she just wants to kick off her heels and eat some pepperoni.
What's Next for the Sanchez Style?
As we move further into 2026, we’re seeing her evolve. She’s been leaning into more archival pieces lately—think John Galliano from the '90s and vintage McQueen. It’s a smarter way of being "flashy." It’s not just about spending money; it’s about showing you have a "fashion eye."
The Lauren Sanchez red dress will likely go down as one of her most-searched looks because it was the moment she truly "arrived" in the political-socialite sphere. It was her way of saying she’s not going to change her bombshell persona just because she’s in a room with world leaders.
If you’re planning a look for a black-tie event, the takeaway from Sanchez is simple: wear what makes you feel like the most powerful version of yourself. If that’s a red corset, go for it. Just maybe keep a slice of pizza waiting for you at home for when the heels come off.
Your Next Step:
Go back and look at the "state dinner" photos of the last three years. You’ll notice a massive shift in how guests are dressing. Use this as inspiration to break one small fashion "rule" at your next formal event—whether it’s a bolder color or a more modern silhouette. Take a look at your closet and identify one "power color" that makes you feel as confident as that red gown made Lauren Sanchez feel.