Existing comment:
Gridiron Dinner Costume:
Early in the Reagan administration, the press criticized Nancy Reagan for perceived lavish expenses on clothes, china, and in redecorating the White House -- though no public funds were spent. After the Gridiron Dinner on March 27, 1982, many people's perception[s] of her changed overnight. Before an audience filled with journalists and politicians, she walked on stage in a mismatched outfit and feathered hat. To the tune of the "Secondhand Rose," she mocked the media's criticism in a song called "Secondhand Clothes." After this pivotal moment, the press was less critical of Mrs. Reagan's style.
I'm wearing second hand clothes,
Second hand clothes,
They're quite the style
In spring fashion shows
Even my new trench coat with fur collar,
Ronnie bought for 10 cents on the dollar,
The china is the only thing that's new
Even though they tell me that I'm no longer queen
Did Ronnie have to buy me that new sewing machine
Second hand clothes,
Second hand clothes,
I sure hope Ed Meese sews.
[Personal note: Even though no public funds are appropriated, the groups that actually buy these things for the White House almost always get income tax deductions so taxpayers end up paying for it one way or the other.] |