Frankie Welch. “Discover America.” [White background in shape of US with words “Discover America” in red letters.], 1968-02-29

Item — item: 20

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

One framed scarf (or perhaps a print based on the scarf).

Accompanying this framed item was a smaller framed text panel (which was not transferred to the Archives) that read as follows:

“Discover America,” the theme of the only fashion show ever held in the White House, was an event which evolved from Mrs. Johnson’s interest in the “Discover America” scarf. Mrs. Welch designed the scarf to help Mrs. Johnson’s beautification program. The scarves were given to governors’ wives who were honored at this show. Later the President and First Lady used this scarf as an official gift. In 1976, the scarf was sold as part of a presidential series for the benefit of America’s bicentennial.

Dates

Event: 1968-02-29

Conditions Governing Access

Open to researchers without restriction. Some items oversized or fragile. Materials may be stored off-site, advance notice may be required for use.

Biographical / Historical

The White House hosted its first – and only – fashion show on February 29, 1968. The fashion show and luncheon was presented by the First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson, and was titled “How to Discover America in Style.” The audience included the wives of governors who were in Washington D.C. for the midwinter meeting of the National Governors Conference. Also in attendance were fashion designers and journalists covering the event. The show specifically highlighted the work of American designers and promoted United States tourism. The event was narrated by Nancy White, editor of Harper’s Bazaar.

Black-and-white negatives, color negatives, and photographic contact sheets documenting the fashion show are held in the Still Picture Branch. Additionally, textual and photographic records related to the event are held at the LBJ Library.

Citation: National Archives https://unwritten-record.blogs.archives.gov/2021/08/10/spotlight-1968-white-house-fashion-show/

Extent

1 items (One framed item)

Language of Materials

From the Collection: English

Additional Description

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Transferred from President Trauth’s Office in June 2022.

Related Materials

Textual and photographic records related to the event are held at the LBJ Library.

Photographs of the event are filed within Record Group 306: Records of the U.S. Information Agency (306-SSA-68-8218) and are held in the Still Picture Branch.