Secrets & Scandals Of America’s First Ladies

Expensive Taste

During John F. Kennedy’s presidency, Jackie became a global fashion icon. In the fall of 1960, Oleg Cassini, a fashion designer and family friend, created an original wardrobe for her as First Lady. In 1961, Jackie spent $45,446 more on fashion than the president’s $100,000 annual salary. How else would she become such an iconic fashion symbol? Her most popular ensemble was that of a pink Chanel suit accompanied with a matching pillbox hat. Her outfit became a symbol of JFK’s assassination. In 1965, she was named to the International Best Dresses List Hall of Fame and her clothes have been preserved at the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum.