Behind Women's Affection for Pink.

In 1927, Time Magazine embarked on a nationwide survey of major department stores, determined to unravel the mystery surrounding colors associated with girls in their clothing lines. The results, however, proved to be a mixed bag of opinions. Interestingly, even a 1918 catalog suggested that little girls should wear blue due to its delicate and dainty nature. Enter Jennifer Wright, an author known for her captivating writings on history and fashion. According to her, it was only after the war that pink underwent a symbolic transformation, acquiring the association we know today.

Fast forward to 1953, a pivotal moment in the pink color's history. Dwight Eisenhower, the victorious World War II general, assumed the presidency, and it marked a turning point for pink's perception. During Ike's inauguration, Mamie Eisenhower emerged in an extravagant rhinestone-studded pink ballgown—a sight unseen during the war's era of simpler styles. Mamie adored pink and became its beloved ambassador, firmly believing that it enhanced her complexion and beautifully contrasted with her striking blue eyes. Newspapers frequently mentioned Mamie Eisenhower alongside the color pink, which became affectionately known as "Mamie pink." She even quipped, "Ike runs the country, I turn the pork chops," further solidifying her affinity for the color.

Interestingly, Mamie's love for pink had an arbitrary influence on society's perception of femininity. Women embraced the color, deeming it the epitome of ladylike fashion. A notable reference is found in the film Funny Face, featuring a song called "Think Pink," where the protagonist—an editor inspired by Diana Vreeland—exclaims that American women must think pink, bidding farewell to black and blue, which were prevalent during the war years. Pink not only gained popularity in women's clothing but also in home décor. It was a trend that many women genuinely enjoyed, without feeling oppressed.

However, there were individuals like Diana Vreeland who resisted reverting to traditional roles. This marked the moment when pink began to represent non-traditional, strong women, both real and fictional. Think of Donna Mae Mims, the fearless racecar driver donning a pink uniform, helmet, and racecar, or the Pink Ladies in Grease and the Plastics in Mean Girls—shrewd and somewhat intimidating female characters. A striking cover of People magazine featured Hillary Clinton wearing a vibrant pink jacket, accompanied by a caption urging women to shatter the highest, hardest glass ceiling. Here, Clinton epitomized the antithesis of Mamie Eisenhower's intentions, proving that pink transcends mere color—it symbolizes personality and challenges assumptions of what women can achieve.

Ultimately, Hillary Clinton, like many others, strives to show the world that despite her accomplishments, she is just a girl, no different from anyone else. The allure of pink lies not only in its vibrant hue but in its power to redefine gender norms and highlight the potential within each individual.