Katy Perry makes patriotic statement with DNC gown

The dress Katy Perry wore to the Democratic National Convention was selected because it referenced the stars and stripes of the American flag
Katy Perry playfully referenced the American flag in the gown she wore to perform at the Democratic National Convention (DNC).

The popstar and long-time Hillary Clinton supporter took to the stage at the DNC on Thursday night (28Jul16) to perform her new song Rise, before a brief version of her hit Roar. Wearing a silver striped body-conscious column gown by Michael Kors for her appearance, the 31-year-old star appeared decidedly less quirky than usual, as her typical stage attire has previously included graphic patterns and latex mini dresses. 

Katy's stylist Leslie Fremar said she opted for the dress for the event, in which Clinton accepted the Democratic presidential nomination, from the designer's Resort 2017 collection because it gave a definite nod to the American flag - but in an elegant and respectful way. 
"She was wearing stars and stripes, but she wasn't wearing an American flag, literally, and that was intentional," she told PeopleStyle, adding that her team completed the look after just two fittings. "We were trying to make it a little bit more serious but still playful."

When it came to choosing Katy's outfit choice, Leslie explains that that it was important to opt for an American brand in order to further signal a sense of patriotism. And New York-based Kors was the obvious choice. 

"That was especially important in this arena," she shared. "I think that it worked out very nicely that we could support an American company."

Of course, the Firework singer had to add a little of her own personal style to the ensemble, which she did through the addition of whimsical jewellery. With a high-fashion twist, the brunette beauty wore a necklace and ring from the Stars and Stripes vintage Bulgari collection circa the 1970s, borrowed from jewellery company Eleuteri, as well as "dainty" earrings from Jane Taylor. 

"This isn't costume jewellery," Leslie says. "This is major."

Before her performance, Katy implored viewers to register to vote, saying that she has "no formal education" but adding: "I do have an open mind and I have a voice."