Laura Bush's Inaugural Gown, 2001

Smithsonian's National Museum of American History
March 9, 2016
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Red gown
Smithsonian's National Museum of American History

Gift of Laura Welch Bush

Laura Bush wore this ruby-red gown of crystal-embroidered Chantilly lace over silk georgette to the 2001 inaugural balls. A sketch and description of the dress was released to the press two weeks before the inauguration. The dress was designed by fellow Texan Michael Faircloth. Some reports speculated that Faircloth encouraged the normally conservative Mrs. Bush to choose the brilliant color.

Photo credit: Photo courtesy of the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History

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