First Lady Looks of Glamour

On a recent trip to one of my favorite cities in the world, Washington D.C., I visited the American History Musuem at the Smithsonian. Of many interesting exhibits to choose amongst-from Julia Child's kitchen to Transportation in America, I found myself beguiled by the "First Ladies at the Smithsonian", featuring inaugural ball gowns, accessories and wares going back to Martha Washington.

Some of my favorites included this red number worn by Mamie Eisenhower for a 1957 State dinner at the British Embassy, featured here along with some accessories. The second photo is the official photo (sans the annoying flash mark).

Included below is everyone's favorite first lady fashion icon, Jacqueline Kennedy. This inaugural gown shows some striking similarities to the gown First Lady Michelle Obama chose. Proving good taste is timeless.

 

I find this Jason Wu gown absolutely extraordinary. Not to mention the Jimmy Choo's and gorgeous jewels that went along with it. This gown definitely takes the cake.  

 

“Inaugural Earrings” – triple rose-cut diamonds with a center cluster of diamond briolettes; set in white gold. Total carat weight is 61.

"Michelle Signet Ring” – white gold and black rhodium with rose-cut diamonds and a rose-cut diamond center stone. Total carat weight is 13. Bracelets – 13 white gold and diamond bangle bracelets. Total carat weight is 13. Gift of Loree Rodkin, in honor of First Lady Michelle

 

As part of the exhibit there was a video featuring Jason Wu, describing his intent for the dress at an event honoring Mrs. Obama. 

Another one of my favorite's had to be Lady Bird Johnson. Besides her absolutely adorable befitting name, who else can pull off looking so charming in fur trimmed canary yellow?!

 Finally, of all the entertaining dishes, this oyster serving dish was my favorite for its originality and imaginative frivolity. 

Game plate and oyster plate from the Hayes state china service. Lucy Hayes worked with artist Theodore Davis to design a service using images of American flora and fauna.