A retrospective of the fashion of former First Lady Nancy Reagan goes on display Nov. 12 at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley. (Stephen Osman / Los Angeles Times)
She knew her style very well, and it was always simple and elegant, says designer James Galanos, who first met Reagan in 1949 at the Beverly Hills boutique Amelia Gray and went on to collaborate with her for two White House terms. (Stephen Osman / Los Angeles Times)
Reagan wore these two gowns by Valentino in the late 1980s. (Stephen Osman / Los Angeles Times)
Reagan donned a secondhand look, left, for a self-deprecating White House skit. Otherwise, her timeless attire would fit easily into any contemporary collection. (Stephen Osman / Los Angeles Times)
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The exhibition takes visitors on a tour of the former first lady’s White House roles and corresponding fashions, and includes audio and visual material. (Stephen Osman / Los Angeles Times)
Co-curator Rush Jenkins with two dresses by James Galanos. (Stephen Osman / Los Angeles Times)
