Legendary soul singer Aretha Franklin has caused a fashion sensation in the United States, after the hat she wore to Barack Obama’s inauguration captured the public’s imagination.
Aretha Franklin was chosen to sing at Barack Obama’s inauguration as the first African-American president. The soul legend was involved in the civil rights struggle, recording the anthem ‘Respect’ which became an iconic hit.
However Franklin herself was unhappy with her performance. Ever the perfectionist, the singer blamed the effect of cld weather on her vocal cords, before heading into the studio to record a better version.
In fact it seems that the main thing Franklin’s performance will be remembered for will be her hat. Designed by Detroit milliner Luke Song, the company has received more than 5,000 orders since the ceremony.
The actual hat has been donated by Franklin to the Smithsonian museum where it will remain until being moved to Obama’s presidential library.
Song told the New York Times that he was delighted with Franklin’s choice. “I’m so glad she chose that one.” he said. “It was the one I was pushing her to wear.”
