First Ladies' Fashion Feuds: Iconic Moments That Rocked the Inaugural Stage!

By the time each U.S. President takes the oath, the First Lady has already captured the nation's eyes, often gracing headlines with dazzling fashion moves! From Lady Bird Johnson's game-changing environmental work in 1965 to her dazzling outfits upping the inauguration ante, the tradition of style statements continues. And boy, did Dr. Jill Biden bring her A-game in 2021 with a custom masterpiece by Gabriela Hearst, while Melania Trump made jaws drop with a signature Ralph Lauren ensemble in 2017!

But this style showdown stretches back to 1912, with Helen Taft sparking a sartorial legacy at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Intrigued? Let’s dive into some standout First Lady fashion moments that left the world buzzing!

Caroline Harrison definitely knew how to rock "America first" in her day! Back in 1889, she kicked off the trend by supporting homegrown fab fashion with an inaugural ball gown made proudly in the USA. From New York City gowns to Finger Lakes silk, she symbolized all-American pride.

Then there's Mamie Eisenhower, a pro at creating buzz! In 1953, by withholding the deets of her rhinestone-laden gown until the last minute, she had everyone eagerly anticipating a glimpse of her iconic "Renoir pink" look. Talk about a suspense-driven reveal!

Move over, newbies! Jackie Kennedy Onassis mastered the fine art of fashion diplomacy by turning classic into cult in 1961. Her pillbox hat and elegant ball gown defined a transformative era, even if minor outfit details were unintended color shifts.

Lady Bird Johnson made yellow the color of history as she became a tradition trendsetter by holding the presidential bible. Her 1965 inauguration yellow gown, designed by John Moore, was a real showstopper, setting a bold yellow standard amidst a sea of black suits.

Oh, you thought re-wearing outfits was modern? Please! Rosalynn Carter was ahead of the curve in 1977 when she repeated a favorite dress, though critics didn’t quite get it. Unlike today's fashion-forward celebs, her nod to a past look didn't fly as smoothly!

Enter Nancy Reagan, who raised the fashion stakes with her dazzling beaded gown in 1981. Even as critics swirled about her "lavish tastes," she strutted in style, debuting her signature "Reagan red" in style.

Finally, let's give a shoutout to Michelle Obama, a glorious champion of emerging designers! In 2009, she rocked a stunning Jason Wu gown, but it was her affordable J. Crew gloves that won hearts, casting her as a first lady passionate about accessible fashion.

The legacy of first lady fashion speaks volumes beyond the podium. Dive into these phenomenal stories of fashion's hidden power and more! For the latest in First Lady fashion fab, check out CNN - Style. Ready to spill the tea? Jump to comments.