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Laura Bush will influence fashion by clothing choices as first lady, IU apparel expert says
Jan. 16, 2001
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Discussion of Laura Bush's gown selection for the upcoming inauguration festivities reflects a long-standing national interest in first lady fashions, according to an Indiana University professor of apparel merchandising.
"There has always been a national fixation with clothing and appearance, especially among the most visible people in society," said Deborah Christiansen, assistant professor in the Department of Apparel Merchandising and Interior Design and director of IU's Costume Construction Technology Program.
"It speaks volumes that the First Ladies Gallery at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History is, and has long been, their most popular exhibit," Christiansen said. "This goes back to a time when fashion was dictated by the upper classes, even royalty."
The number of books and articles published about Lady Diana and Jackie Kennedy reflects the popularity of royal and stylish first ladies, she said. "All first ladies take their role very seriously and wish to be remembered for their political and social contributions, but also for their grace, charm and style."
She said Mrs. Bush's choice of red for her inaugural gown reflects Nancy Reagan's style. "The color is very patriotic and therefore appropriate. It also is a color of strength, not at all passive, so to me it sets a mood for Mrs. Bush's involvement in political activities."
The IU faculty member, who teaches classes on fashion design, said people's choices in clothing make a statement.
"Clothing says almost everything about a person, from a demonstration of wealth and class to something about the occasion and even details about our character, beliefs, personality and mood. A woman communicates her personal attitudes about economics, power, femininity and sexual allure. In politics they have to be especially cognizant of the message they send, and certainly must follow the saying, 'You never get a second chance at a first impression.'
"For women, especially, the political and social climates are two of the prime determinants of a change in clothing styles. A swing from conservatism to a more liberal mood and vice versa will change body exposure and even the female body ideal. It will affect trends in color and style that even the least fashion-conscious women can't escape," Christiansen said.
Evidence of these fashion statements was evident at the most recent political conventions, she noted. "The Republicans were said to be consciously avoiding anything too fashionable. Much like Barbara Bush following the conspicuous consumption of the 1980s Reagan administration, their message was that they were normal people in normal clothes. Hollywood glamor was replaced by no-nonsense WASPiness. The women of the Democratic Party were en masse in ocean blue, seeming to come together as one and communicating feelings of peace and unity."
Christiansen can be reached at 812-855-7854 or delchris@indiana.edu