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Highlights from First Lady Fashion

Artifact No.1982.33.2, Green Luis Estévez Chiffon Gown with Floral Appliqué; Gerald R. Ford Pre…
Artifact No.1982.33.2, Green Luis Estévez Chiffon Gown with Floral Appliqué; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum (Grand Rapids, MI)

Betty Ford was known for her sense of style. Like many First Ladies, Mrs. Ford used her fashion choices to convey messages and influence public perception. Her fashion sense and interest in couture began as a young woman, when she worked as a model and a fashion buyer. As First Lady, three designers - Frankie Welch, Louis Estéves, and Albert Capraro - dominated Mrs. Ford’s wardrobe and created the outfits that she wore to state dinners, travels abroad, campaign rallies, and other public appearances.

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Artifact No.1982.33.1,  Albert Capraro Multicolor Floral Chiffon Gown; Gerald R. Ford President…
1982.33.1
Albert Capraro
ca. 1975
Artifact No. 1983.88.2, Luis Estévez Eagle Dress with Cape; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library…
1983.88.2 a-c
Luis Estévez
ca.1976
Artifact No. 1988.1039.4,  Luis Estévez Pink Beaded Chiffon Gown; Gerald R. Ford Presidential L…
1988.1039.4 a-c
Luis Estévez
ca.1975
Artifact No. 1988.1039.11, Frankie Welch White Crepe Gown with Ostrich Feather Trim; Gerald R. …
1988.1039.11
Frankie Welch
ca.1974
Artifact No. 1988.1039.14,  Frankie Welch Blue and Gold Checkered Organza Gown; Gerald R. Ford …
1988.1039.14
Frankie Welch
ca. 1974
Artifact No. 1988.1039.17,  Luis Estévez Pink Ombre Chiffon Gown; Gerald R. Ford Presidential L…
1988.1039.17
Luis Estévez
ca.1975
Artifact No. 1983.19, Luis Estévez Brown Jersey Gown with White Cape; Gerald R. Ford Presidenti…
1983.19 a-b
Luis Estévez
ca. 1975
Artifact No. 1988.1039.7, Albert Capraro Beige and Brown Chiffon Caftan; Gerald R. Ford Preside…
1988.1039.7
Albert Capraro
ca.1975
Artifact No. 1988.1039.12,  Frankie Welch Lemon Yellow Polka Dot Gown; Gerald R. Ford President…
1988.1039.12
Frankie Welch
ca.1974
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