Advertisement

The reason Barbara Bush kept her hair white (and why she always wore pearls)


On Tuesday evening, Former First Lady of the United States, Barbara Bush died at the age of 92. As the matriarch of a political dynasty, Bush was a woman whose “grandmotherly” image was instantly recognizable.

Former First Lady of the United States, Barbara Bush <em>(Getty Images)</em>
Former First Lady of the United States, Barbara Bush (Getty Images)

On Tuesday evening, Former First Lady of the United States, Barbara Bush died at the age of 92. As the matriarch of a political dynasty, Bush was a woman whose “grandmotherly” image was instantly recognizable.

It turns out, Bush’s infamous snow white hair and ever-present pearls were more than just a style preference. In an exclusive interview with The TODAY Show conducted by granddaughter Jenna Bush Hagar to commemorate her 90th birthday, Bush playfully addressed her political uniform.

ALSO SEE: How the style of America’s First Ladies has changed over time

“The pearls are to cover the wrinkles, which they no longer do,” Barbara said jokingly. “You can’t wear pearls all over your face.”

As for her white hair, Bush attributed her decision to embrace the colour to maintain her active lifestyle.

Former President George H.W Bush and wife Barbara were married for 73 years.<em> (Getty Images)</em>
Former President George H.W Bush and wife Barbara were married for 73 years. (Getty Images)

“The white hair was because I wanted to play golf,” she said. “I wanted to play tennis. I wanted to swim and my hair turned, as I’m sure someone else will tell you, orange, green, yellow, depending upon how much chlorine in the pool. So I decided to go white.”

Bush leaves behind her husband of 73 years, former President of the United States, George H.W. Bush, six children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA!
Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.