Mamie Eisenhower

Pink was not so heavily associated with women and girls until after World War II, not only because the nation was experiencing a baby boom, but also because pink was First Lady Mamie Eisenhower’s favorite color. She was often seen wearing this now-iconic color, which some have speculated led to a surge in the number of pink bathrooms, wallpapers, and clothing items during the 1950s.

Via/ JFK Library

Jackie Kennedy

Known for her modest, yet modern style, Jackie Kennedy was criticized during her husband’s campaign for spending too much money on European clothing and later as First Lady for allowing herself to be photographed in swimwear while on vacation. At the same time she was revered for her elegant style and remains one of the most recognizable and influential fashion icons of the 20th century.

Via/ U.S. National Archives

Pat Nixon

Before the scandal that rocked the nation, Pat Nixon broke an important barrier for First Ladies- she wore slacks in a portrait, something which had rarely been done before, though for the most part she wore dresses or gowns.

Via/ U.S. National Archives

Known for her long gowns and flamboyant style, many of Betty Ford’s most memorable wardrobe items are now housed at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (including the gown from the portrait below). Her time as a fashion model and then later as a buyer for a department store gave her the tools to express herself vividly via her clothing.

Via/ Ford Library Museum

Rosalynn Carter

She was known for her frugal elegance and she even brought a sewing machine to the White House, but there’s no denying that her style was, at least some of the time, very glamorous indeed.

Via/ U.S. National Archives

Nancy Reagan

Overwhelmingly, her favorite colors were black, white, and red and she wore usually at least one of her colors during White House events and photos. Having been an actress herself and married to an actor-turned-politician, she was well-poised to become a very stylish First Lady.

Via/ U.S. National Archives

Michelle Obama

Known for a somewhat more casual style, Michelle Obama’s style throughout her 8 years as First Lady was also characterized by a clear love of vibrant colors. Back in 2009 she came under criticism for baring her arms in an official White House portrait, but it became one of the hallmarks of her fashion style.

Via/ Flickr

Melania Trump

She has come under criticism for her lavish designer outfits, like many other First Ladies. But, Melania Trump’s wardrobe is clearly inspired by her past work in the fashion industry as a model.

Via/ Flickr
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