Mamie Doud Eisenhower, 1953-1961

Mamie Eisenhower’s Evening Gown, Purse, and Shoes
Gift of Mrs. Dwight D. Eisenhower

Rose-colored silk damask ball gown designed by Nettie Rosenstein and worn to a 1957state dinner at the British Embassy. The ensemble included a matching purse and shoes.

Mamie Eisenhower loved clothes. She patronized well-known designers but was just as happy buying mail-order hats and ready-made dresses from discount department stores. Women copied the “first lady look” and Mrs. Eisenhower’s charm bracelets, close-fitting hats, and “Mamie pink” color preference became fashion trends.

Courtesy of Library of Congress