RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — In a significant departure from tradition, Virginia’s first female Governor Abigail Spanberger wore a striking white outfit during her inauguration ceremony on Saturday, instead of the customary morning suit traditionally donned by male governors. Instead of adhering to the standard protocol outlined in A Guide to Virginia Protocol and Traditions, which prescribes dark suits for women and formal morning coats for men, Spanberger chose to wear white, emblematic of the women's suffrage movement, during a momentous occasion in Virginia's history. Many in attendance continued the tradition, including her husband, who wore a morning coat. Though her team declined to comment on the fashion choice, Spanberger had publicly stated in a prior interview her intention to break away from tradition. I’m not going to wear a morning coat, not to disappoint anyone, she declared. Her outfit, featuring a long white coat with gold buttons and white gloves, resonated with the themes of empowerment and equality as she addressed the crowd. In her inaugural speech, Spanberger highlighted the perseverance of suffragists, conveying her gratitude for their sacrifices made for women's right to vote. 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, she said. This choice of attire not only signified a personal and political statement but also marked a historic moment for women in leadership roles across the nation.