Celebrate Presidents’ Day with First Lady style!

February 21, 2011

But, we all know that behind every great man – is a great woman! And in this case, the first lady, is a woman of stature – and style. The First Ladies Hall at the museum for those that have never visited, features reconstructions of White House rooms decorated in various period styles from its earliest appearance to present time. Within these rooms stand 9 models of our former first ladies in their inaugural gowns. For a fashion lover such as myself, the exhibit is such a treat – a true American quilt if you will, of fashion. It’s a visual timeline of styles as you scan the room. First Lady Coolidge’s dress, the bright red flapper, was the height of chic during the 1920’s and returned a little glitz to the White House. It’s also interesting to know that hubby President Calvin Coolidge (aka ‘Frugal Cal’) with his tight spending was insistent on his wife never repeating an outfit, and it would seem his one indulgence was his wife’s wardrobe (I like his style!).
Another interesting dress of note is First Lady Eisenhower’s. Her signature style was very frilly, and her inaugural gown of candy pink silk covered in pink rhinestones is nothing short of frilly. She became a fashion icon for the middle-aged, middle-America ‘I Love Lucy’ set of fashionistas in the States.
And who could forget Miss Jackie O? The ultimate first lady of style. First Lady Kennedy’s gown draws inspiration from European designers and was considered very fashion forward at the time. My favorite part is the finishing touch – the matching, simple cape. In terms of first lady fashion, this was a pivotal turning point for future ladies of the White House and truly set a standard.
So this Presidents’ Day – not only should we celebrate the great leaders of our country, but the chic women who stood behind them.
–– Kate

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