Bernie Sanders’ mittens and coat were a hit at the inauguration.

At the recent inauguration of U.S. President Joe Biden, many attendees garnered praise for their fashion choices. From Vice-President Kamala Harris’s stunning purple ensemble to Michelle Obama’s elegant wine pantsuit, the event was a showcase of style and sophistication.

However, amidst the sea of sartorial splendor, one figure stood out for his practicality and down-to-earth approach. 79-year-old senator Bernie Sanders from Vermont made a statement with his inauguration attire, which consisted of a pair of large fuzzy mittens and a familiar coat that has now become iconic thanks to internet memes.

Despite the chilly weather in Washington D.C., Sanders opted for comfort over glamour, choosing to keep warm in his cozy mittens and coat. The image of him sitting alone in a folding chair, adorned in his signature attire, quickly went viral and resonated with people around the world.

But there is more to Sanders’ mittens than meets the eye. They were actually made by Jen Ellis, a teacher from Vermont, using recycled materials. Sanders received the mittens as a gift over two years ago and has been proudly wearing them ever since, even on the campaign trail.

With his laid-back demeanor and practical fashion choices, Sanders exuded a vibe reminiscent of a “reluctant dad at a sports game,” and the internet could not get enough of it. The image of him in his mittens and coat sparked a wave of memes and lighthearted commentary, offering a moment of levity in the midst of political transition.

During an interview with CBS, Sanders defended his outfit choice by stating, “In Vermont we know the cold. We’re not so concerned about good fashion. We want to keep warm.” And keep warm he did, in style.

While Wednesday marked a significant day in American politics, as a new administration took office and the Trump era came to an end, it also gave birth to a new meme that will surely stand the test of time. Sanders’ practical yet endearing inauguration look captured the hearts of many and provided a much-needed dose of humor and relatability.

So, as we reflect on the events of that historic day, let us not forget the unlikely fashion icon that emerged from the inauguration crowd, clad in his cozy mittens and timeless coat. Bernie Sanders may not have set out to make a fashion statement, but he sure did leave a lasting impression on all of us.