Reading about fashion history is one of my favorite activities on a free afternoon. The National Museum of American History in Washington D.C. has a section called First Ladies' Fashion, which if you are a history buff or enjoy fashion, is definitely worth seeing.
The collection is important as it has, in addition to a fashion collection, more than 1,000 objects. All of these items document the lives and contributions of first ladies. While a first lady is often remembered for her style, this collection highlights social and political activities - the exhibition explores the stories of these women throughout history.
Take a look at the two gowns below. They say so much about history and how fashion changed. Mary Lincoln enjoyed a silk dress. The times required a modest look - her shoulders and arms were to be covered. The gown's silhouette suggest that a beautiful body was defined by a small waist with the hips area being accentuated by a voluminous skirt. A hundred years later, Jacqueline Kennedy attended an event wearing a one-shoulder gown. Her arms were fully exposed. The silhouette is body-hugging.
If you have a chance, spend a couple of hours browsing the Museum and enjoy this exhibition. You will learn a lot about history and how fashion has changed over time. You will be able to imagine how these women lived their lives, what they wore, and how they affected the society through their social and political work.
The collection is important as it has, in addition to a fashion collection, more than 1,000 objects. All of these items document the lives and contributions of first ladies. While a first lady is often remembered for her style, this collection highlights social and political activities - the exhibition explores the stories of these women throughout history.
Take a look at the two gowns below. They say so much about history and how fashion changed. Mary Lincoln enjoyed a silk dress. The times required a modest look - her shoulders and arms were to be covered. The gown's silhouette suggest that a beautiful body was defined by a small waist with the hips area being accentuated by a voluminous skirt. A hundred years later, Jacqueline Kennedy attended an event wearing a one-shoulder gown. Her arms were fully exposed. The silhouette is body-hugging.
If you have a chance, spend a couple of hours browsing the Museum and enjoy this exhibition. You will learn a lot about history and how fashion has changed over time. You will be able to imagine how these women lived their lives, what they wore, and how they affected the society through their social and political work.
 Mary Lincoln’s Silk Dress, 1861 |  Jacqueline Kennedy’s Evening Gown, 1961 |