Despite all the luxury and responsibilities that come with being president and living in the White House, one thing—or rather, one source—does not leave their side. Can you guess what it is? The press! First Ladies’ wardrobe choices have always been criticized, and they frequently make news for defying convention.
Second Lady Usha Vance has recently come under fire for her antiquated attire. However, criticism isn’t limited to White House women. Men have also committed some notable fashion faux pas.Aside from Donald Trump’s distinctive red MAGA hat, past presidents have made controversial fashion decisions that continue to provoke discussion.
Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic fashion pairings between American presidents throughout history. The list is extensive, ranging from Bill Clinton to Jimmy Carter!According to The List, Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, encouraged Americans to conserve energy in a now-famous 1977 Fireside Chat while sporting a light brown cardigan over a dress shirt.The goal was to come across as approachable and grounded.
He eventually wore cardigans with formal attire, which made him appear extremely worn out and gruff, even if renowned designer Ralph Lauren approved of the fashion decision. Carter’s kind disposition, passion for casual clothing, and unwavering dedication to elevating the country will live on in our memories forever. On December 29, 2024, he passed away.
Next, Ronald Reagan, who was well-known for his embrace of Americana, often wore full western attire and cowboy hats, particularly at rodeos. The cowboy hat and suit combination frequently clashed, giving off a more theatrical vibe than presidential polish, even though it might have felt real. The costumes weren’t really fashion-forward, but they did leave a lasting impression.
Cheers to National Cowboy Day! I seem to recall a well-known country and western song cautioning mothers against allowing their children to become cowboys, President Reagan once jokingly said. The fact that cowboys can occasionally grow up to become president was overlooked in the song.0JvfeFR0XQ pic.twitter.com/
(@RonaldReagan) Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute July 25, 2020
Likewise, to the annoyance of his Secret Service detail, one of America’s most popular presidents, Bill Clinton, was frequently spotted jogging outside the White House. But his running shorts were frequently the center of attention. Sometimes it felt like he was jogging in only a T-shirt and sneakers since they were so short.
Bill Clinton and Al Gore pause their running. July 10, 1992.tweet.com/yGfUNZtE4a
June 14, 2022: American politicians acting normally (@normalpols)
George W. Bush is added to the list as well! When he wore black Crocs with matching socks, cargo shorts, and a button-up shirt in public in 2007, he shocked the press. The Washington Post bemoaned, By Executive Order, Crocs Aren’t Chic, while Foreign Policy cheekily called it “foot-in-crocs disease.” The embarrassing fashion faux pas was recorded in the annals of history.
The most well-known person in the world at the moment, Donald Trump, has already made headlines due to his fashion choices, his clumsy digressions on his platform, The Truth Social, his orange-tanned face, and rumors of hair transplants. However, the most notorious of his fashion gaffes occurred during one of his rallies in 2021.
Rumors circulated that Trump had worn his rumpled pants backwards after seeing pictures of them. Jimmy Fallon, the late-night show, made a joke in which it appeared as though an airbag had been released and he had a fanny pack on the inside of his trousers. Whether they were on backwards or not, the wrinkled, unattractive look did not look well.
Trump is currently in Miami sporting a crimson tie with stripes.
STRONG.pic.twitter.com/wyNXQI6e0Q Looking
January 27, 2025, Johnny Maga (@_Johnnymaga)
Furthermore, it is uncommon to see Donald Trump without a long, red tie that hangs well below his belt and is frequently much too long. His anti-fan organization claims that the tie frequently resembles a leash, despite the fact that it is allegedly a strategy to appear thinner. The way it fit was an absolute mess.
The final line is that even the world’s most powerful individuals may be influenced by a lousy outfit. Despite their many political accomplishments, these leaders’ fashion choices demonstrate that even presidents are susceptible to media criticism, trends, and the negative aspects of yellow journalism.
