Fashion of United States First Ladies

Presented by Cathy Phillips

Tickets: $10

Explore the evolution of United States' first lady fashion in this engaging presentation. Discover how these women's clothing choices have become symbols of cultural shifts and national identity, reflecting societal expectations, political climates, and changing roles throughout history. From Jackie Kennedy's elegance to Michelle Obama's contemporary flair, each first lady has left a mark on fashion and cultural norms. Join former James Library & Center for the Arts board member Cathy Phillips as she explores everything from Martha Washington’s embrace of Made-in-America fabrics to Mary Todd Lincoln’s former slave dressmaker to Dr. Jill Biden’s commitment to multiple use outfits. Gain insights into what their attire represented beyond aesthetics—empowerment, diplomacy, or advocacy—and speculate on the future directions of first lady fashion as it continues to shape American values and aspirations.

Cathy Phillips is a former staff member at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute of UMass Boston and has presented courses on art, documentary film, and podcasts. Cathy started designing and sewing her own clothes in her long-ago teens and, although she currently lives in yoga pants, she adores the styles of others.