There isn't a single person who "made" pink a girl color. Rather, it was a gradual cultural shift that solidified throughout the 20th century. Mamie Eisenhower, First Lady from 1953-1961, significantly contributed to this association.
Here's a breakdown:
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Early History: Pink wasn't always associated with girls. In the early 20th century, pink was sometimes considered a color for boys, as it was seen as a lighter shade of red, which symbolized strength and masculinity. Blue, being a more delicate color, was sometimes associated with girls.
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The Shifting Trend: The association of pink with girls began to solidify in the mid-20th century, fueled by marketing, fashion trends, and cultural influences.
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Mamie Eisenhower's Influence: Mamie Eisenhower played a significant role. She loved the color pink and often wore it. Her famous pink inaugural gown in 1953 and her generally pink-themed White House ("Mamie's Pink Palace") helped cement the connection between pink and femininity in the public consciousness. She was a visible and admired figure, and her fashion choices had a considerable impact.
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Marketing and Media: Marketing campaigns targeted at girls frequently utilized pink. Toys, clothing, and other items marketed to girls were often predominantly pink, further reinforcing the association. Media portrayals of girls and women frequently included pink as a symbol of femininity.
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No Single Originator: Ultimately, the association of pink with girls was not the result of a single decision or individual. It was a complex cultural process shaped by various factors, with Mamie Eisenhower being a particularly influential figure in accelerating and solidifying this trend.
In conclusion, while no single person "made" pink a girl color, the color's popularity exploded in the mid 20th century and figures like Mamie Eisenhower contributed significantly to the association.
