The Legacy of Rosalynn Carter: A Trailblazing First Lady
Rosalynn Carter, the former First Lady who passed away at the age of 96, may not have been considered a trendsetter or stylish during her time in the White House, but her approach to fashion and image-making deserves a reassessment. Mrs. Carter strategically used her clothes to convey messages of economy, accessibility, and her folksy roots. She caused a scandal by wearing a previously worn dress to the inauguration, challenging the expectation of glamour. Mrs. Carter continued to break sartorial rules by establishing an office in the East Wing and carrying a briefcase. Her modest and sustainable style is now seen as relevant, with current First Lady Jill Biden also embracing a similar approach.