It’s an important day for American voters — and despite your preference, something we can ALL agree on is how stylish many of the first ladies are.
Pearls, ruffles, pill hats and sleeveless — just a few of the trends many of the Mrs. Commander-In-Chiefs made popular while their husbands worked hard at the Oval Office.
Michelle Obama: After Bill Clinton’s and of course, her husband speeches, Mrs. O conquered the hearts of millions by wearing this hot little number by Tracy Reese. Now this is the right to ‘bare’ arms I can certainly support. Michelle is known to bring lesser known designers to the spotlight and thanks to her style, Jason Wu and Isabel Toledo are now forces to be reckoned with in the fashion world.
Nancy Reagan: Known for Chanel Suits and Oscar de la Renta duds, this pint-size super wife proved that she was not a recessionista, wearing expensive labels during a time when the country had a trillion dollar deficit and hard economic times. Mrs. Reagan always looked put together and her style has been emulated for decades.
Jackie Kennedy: When it comes style, Mrs. Jack Kennedy surely leads the pack. Her timeless style inspired generations of women and she is credited for making pearls and pillboxes chic and oversize sunglasses a must for every fashionista. Oleg Cassini is one lucky designer!
Frances Cleveland: She is the youngest First Lady as she was only 21 when her husband Grover became president. She wore avant-garde styles and was not afraid to wear rich fabrics, sequins and a little bit of skin. Mrs. ‘cleavage,’ err, I mean Cleveland, loved low-cut pieces and one-shoulder dresses.
Dolly Madison: Remember, the 1800s were more demure, so Dolly certainly caused a still with her fashion forward choices and risque dresses. For her husband’s inauguration, she wore a gold turban expressing her individuality and sense of style. She was criticized for embracing European trends, such as wearing blush.
The latter ladies are obvious choices, but who knew Frances youthful style and Dolly’s love of curves? For some reason, Mrs. Madison reminds me of pastries; Is there a brand, or something?
Always remember, style can be acquired anywhere and any time. No matter who is victorious today, I am sure they will command some cues for future style mavens not just in Washington, D.C., but all over the globe.
Ryzenberg On, is Signing Off