Reagan Red—the color named for First Lady Nancy Reagan, who died on Sunday at the age of 94. Unlike other First Ladies with the exception of Jacqueline Kennedy, Reagan brought a sense of polished glamour to the White House during her husband Ronald Reagan’s two terms.

The fashion choices were always notable. The First Lady favored James Galanos for the inaugural balls in 1981 and 1985, and promoted American fashion by wearing creations from CFDA Members Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, Bill Blass, Adolfo, and Arnold Scaasi. The silhouettes were often one-shouldered or strong-shouldered – a reflection of Eighties style as favored by the Carringtons, Ewings and all of New York society.

For 1988, the CFDA honored Nancy Reagan with the Lifetime Achievement Award, which was presented to her by New York society’s grand dame Brooke Astor.

As a tribute, CFDA.com is republishing Nancy Reagan in her own words for that year’s CFDA Fashion Awards Journal:

“Life is full of twists and unexpected turns. When I married Ronald Reagan over thirty-six years ago, I figured we’d probably always lead public lives. Who would have guessed though that we’d be inhabitants of the White House for eight years?

I think I’ve grown a lot during that time, at least I hope so. I remember when I used to be afraid to do more than say hello before an audience — and now look at what I do! The drug program has become central to my life and it means a lot to me that I can make a difference in a troubled child’s life because of the position that I hold.

When I was a child, I was very close to my parents. Once when I had done something wrong, my father reprimanded me in a way that endeared him to me even more. He said I should always be true to myself and do what I thought was best regardless of what others might be doing. I’ve never forgotten that piece of advice. I think it’s helped me throughout my adult life.

Now this chapter in my life is ending and another is beginning. Here’s to old friends and new beginnings!”