Laura Welch Bush, 2001-2009

Laura Bush’s Inaugural Gown, 2001
Gift of Laura Welch Bush

Ruby-red gown of crystal-embroidered Chantilly lace over silk georgette, designed by Michael Faircloth. Mrs. Bush carried a purse designed by Judith Leiber.

Laura Bush brought her commitment to literacy to the White House. Her Ready to Read, Ready to Learn initiative supported the president’s goals for education reform. After September 11, she took the lead in comforting and reassuring American children, and spoke out for the rights of women in Afghanistan in the first presidential weekly radio address given by a first lady. Mrs. Bush traveled to more than seventy-five countries promoting women’s rights and human rights.