Washington's Most Influential Women Through The Ages

Sarah Palin In her dorm room at the University of Idaho, Former Alaska governor looks more like an '80s sorority chick, than a future politician. Sporting a interesting motto on her t-shirt indeed, hopefully this look was strictly for pj's. Dorm room attire aside, Palin was clearly a teenaged beauty queen, winning the Miss Wasilla beauty pageant contest in 1984. [photo via] - - - - - - - A mere 20 years later, Palin looks clean and professional, if not also political, in this photo for her 1992 candidacy for Wasila City Council. Who knew that by 2008, she would be running for vice president under the Republican ticket. Everyone has to start small somewhere, right? [photo via]- - - - On the campaign trail with John McCain in 2008, Palin looks fashionable, yet polished in Raleigh, North Carolina. The patent leather belt looks trendy but still smart with her navy jacket, simple jewelry picks and smart spectacles. [photo via] - - - I have absolutely nothing to say about this jacket (is that a jacket?), Palin wore to the Governor's Picnic in Ancorage in 2009. I know its freezing in Alaska, but that purple fur isn't doing anyone a favor. [photo via] - - - On The Tonight Show with Jay Leno in 2010, Palin finally got the look right. She looks classic and cool in jeans and a blazer. By tying her hair up into a sleek bun, Palin was prepared for any shenanigans Mr. Leno might have brought to the show. [photo via]