Presidential Jeans—A Retrospective

Yesterday we posted a commentary on President Obama’s jeans and today we’re reaching into the archives to bring you even more presidents in jeans. Jeans certainly have come a long way since their invention. In their first incarnation, jeans were worn only by manual laborers. The sturdy fabric and practical design that originally attracted workers, soon excited a much wider audience. Jeans were successively adopted by cowboys, college students, performers, and presidents. In fact, our most recent presidents (except for the gentlemanly George H.W. Bush) have all worn jeans publicly in hopes that the average American will identify with them.

When wearing suits and ties, presidents hope to convey that they are professional, wise, and experienced. When wearing jeans, they are communicating that they understand the concerns of everyday Americans. Sound calculating? Obviously! That’s what being a politician is all about.

And now, for your viewing pleasure, we’ve prepared a montage of denim loving presidents. Your thoughts?

Well, first off, they all look like prime candidates for an indiDenim makeover  to us. . .

Maybe Obama’s jeans could use a little “change”. . .

Image from http://www.swamppolitics.com

Nice belt, Mr. Bush! We’re impressed by your accessorizing powers, but we’re not so sure about the rest of the outfit.

Image from http://www.fotki.com

Clinton wears his jeans on horseback. . .well, that depends on your definition of jeans.

Image from http://www.hailtothechiefs.com

Reagan goes all out with double denim. Mistakes were made.

Image from http://www.wiwfarm.com

There he goes again! Manual labor and jeans—rock on, Carter.

Image from: http://www.habitat.org

posted by: danielle on July 17, 2009 at 10:40 am
filed under: Misc Musings | comments (1)
TAGS: history of jeans, mens jeans, american denim, presidential jeans

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On 07-17-2009, .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) said

Nice photos. They are all so cute!