Presidential Fashion History
This research project by fashion historian Summer Anne Lee explores the historical importance of the clothing worn by U.S. presidents, emphasizing its role in conveying messages, reflecting personalities, and influencing public perceptions. A book, Presidential Fashion: An Illustrated History, is forthcoming with Yale University Press.
Summer teaches courses in fashion history at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) and regularly shares educational video content on social media. She received an MA in Fashion and Textile Studies: History, Theory, Museum Practice from FIT and a BA in Communication and Media from the City University of New York. She is currently pursuing a PhD at the Bard Graduate Center.
Public Lectures
“Presidential Style”
Smithsonian Associates, Sunday, February 21, 2027- 3:00 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. ET
From George Washington’s formal velvet suits to John F. Kennedy’s youthful Ivy League style, presidents of the United States have used clothing to express personality, establish authority, and connect with the public. Some, such as Martin Van Buren and Chester Arthur, became known for their conspicuous attention to fashion, while others, like Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln, attracted notice precisely because their appearance departed from contemporary ideals.
In this illustrated lecture, fashion historian Summer Anne Lee explores the distinctive styles of presidents from the 18th through the 20th centuries, examining the clothing that made them memorable and the praise, criticism, and cultural commentary it inspired. Drawing on her forthcoming book, Presidential Fashion: An Illustrated History, Lee recounts how presidential dress has changed alongside American ideas about masculinity, respectability, fashion, and leadership—and how individual presidents have helped shape the office itself.
“Exhibition Program: Inside George Washington’s Wardrobe”
The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum
Through letters, paintings and surviving garments, George Washington’s wardrobe reveals layers of complex production and meaning. From transatlantic ordering networks to intentional choices in fabric and style, Washington’s dress was carefully designed — military uniforms and lace jabots alike. Each garment played a key role in shaping his public image as commander in chief and the first president, while also expressing an emerging American identity. By examining these materials, this lecture by Summer Anne Lee will show how clothing served as a powerful political tool.
In the Media
In the Media
As a scholar of presidential fashion, Summer has been featured on CBS and interviewed on multiple podcasts to discuss the rich and revealing history of what America’s leaders wore.
IN THE PRESS
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