The Most Stylish US First Ladies

FIRST LADIES OF STYLE From Martha Washington to Michelle Obama, the woman in the White House serving as First Lady has always been a source of interest, focus, and inspiration for the American public. Not surprisingly, women across the country make note of - and copy-her personal style, as well. Here is a rundown of some of America's most notably stylish First Ladies and what defined each of their magnetic images. DOLLEY MADISON This First Lady was raised a Quaker and grew up wearing modest clothing in somber shades. As soon as she left the faith, she began wearing all the latest trends! She quickly became notorious for her low-necked dresses. She was the first private citizen to transmit a message by telegraph-which no doubt she did in a stylish outfit! 1809-1817 Madison occasionally served as White House hostess when her friend (and widower) Thomas Jefferson was in office, prior to her official First Lady post with She received mixed reviews for her striking Inaugural Ball outfit, which included an outlandish turban accented with feathers. husband James Madison. FRANCES This First Lady was only 21 when sitting President Grover Cleveland - the CLEVELAND she married current youngest First Lady in history. Also the only First Lady to serve two nonconsecutive terms in office. Her wedding dress-an ivory satin dress with orange blossom train-captivated the nation. She wore no jewelry at her wedding, except her engagement ring; and carried no bouquet. She quickly became a fashion icon for her many European outfits, which she had bought in a pre-wedding tour of Europe. Her haircut, called the "Frankie;" also became popular. It involved shaving the hairs at the nape of her neck and wearing a pouf in front. 1886-1889 1893-1897 American women loved and OMG copied the young First Lady's every move: When newspaper reporters fabricated a reported that she had stopped wearing bustles, the garment quickly lost popularity in the U.S. She scandalized the Women's Christian Temperance Union with her dresses that exposed cleavage and bare shoulders. When they rallied a petition to get her to stop, she simply ignored them. GRACE COOLIDGE Grace was married to "Silent Cal," but was his opposite in personality: Beloved for her warmth, vivacity, and fashion-forward style. She embraced the flapper style of the time by bobbing her hair and choosing straight dresses that showed her legs. Slim and sporty, she had the perfect figure for the Roaring '20s look. She loved to wear bright 1923-1929 colors, especially red. Her husband loved her fashion sense, and would shop to buy dresses especially for her. However, he disapproved of her wearing slacks and cropping her hair. She was given a gold locket by Charles Worth on behalf of the French garment industry, as a token of their esteem. Mamie's love of the color MAMIE pink started a nationwide midcentury décor trend. EISENHOWER In addition to her fondness for pink, she adored fur, pearls, and glittery costume jewelry. She had a knack for pinching pennies, and was talented at mixing high- and low-end items in her wardrobe. 1953-1961 She was famous for her She was the first president's wife to openly kiss the President in public! hairstyle, an up-do with short bangs, which she refused to change even when it was out of fashion. JACKIE KENNEDY As one of the most revered in history, style icons Jackie's influence cannot be overstated. Her personal fashion sense is considered the ultimate mark of class and grace to this day. She defined the look of the '60s. Some of her signature items include sheaths, pillbox hats, pearls, headscarves, and oversized sunglasses. Frequently wore designs by Oleg Cassini. 1961-1963 After her death, it came out that She once wore a leopard coat, she herself had helped to design which was credited with many of her gowns and outfits. helping to deplete the leopard population worldwide. NANCY REAGAN This First Lady, like her husband, was a Hollywood actor for many years. She preferred an overtly feminine style, which fell in line with her traditional values, but also is credited with bringing glamour to the administration. She wore a particular shade of red so often, it became known as "Reagan Red." Some of her favorite designers during her time in the White House included Oscar de la Renta and Galanos. 1981-1989 Nancy was criticized by some for accepting expensive designer fashion, but she defended herself by saying the She threw many elegant parties guests in the White House, and was responsible for with Hollywood clothes were borrowed and were to be returned. much of its refurbishment. HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON Hillary was the first blonde First Lady since Hannah Van Buren. She frequently changed her hairstyle-with varying results-while her husband was in office, causing a buzz each time. The educated and 1993-2001 accomplished First Lady often expressed frustration that the press focused more on her style than her political and charitable work. Even more than her hairstyles, she's known for her progressive pantsuits and "power suits." MICHELLE OBAMA This First Lady draws much attention for her fashion sense-both positive and negative. She is known for her love of bright colors and understated design. She invited scandal early in her husband's presidency by frequently going sleeveless and exposing her bare arms. 2009-present Also criticized and praised for her re-use of gowns, including the dress she wore to the Michelle is also famous for president's First Inaugural Ball. buying clothing off the rack, and has been photographed often in "everywoman" designers such as J. Crew, Asos, and even Target. Her 2009 Inauguration gown put young American designer Jason Wu on the map. BILL CLINTON As the country's potential First Man (ever!), the former President has the option to create First Husband fashion from scratch. r $200 He already got things started in the 90's with his infamous $200 haircut aboard Air Force One! OGLE SCHOOL www.ogleschool.edu/blog/first-ladies-of-style HAIR • SKIN • NAILS