Before First Lady Michelle Obama joined her husband at his public inauguration, the most immediate question for many in the audience was, “Who is she wearing?”
Michelle Obama's choice of attire is among the few genuine unknowns surrounding President Barack Obama's second term inaugural. And while it may seem laughable to some, it’s an endorsement that could potentially mean millions of dollars in new business for a designer. Her decision to wear a flowing ivory gown by young designer Jason Wu to the inaugural balls four years ago made him a major force in the fashion industry. The ruby-colored chiffon and velvet dress was a follow-up to the white gown Wu made for her in 2009.
"I can't believe it. It's crazy," said Wu. "To have done it once was already the experience of my life. To have a second time is tremendous."She paired the dress with a handmade diamond embellished ring by jewelry designer Kimberly McDonald, and shoes designed by Jimmy Choo. At the end of the inaugural festivities, the first lady's outfit and accompanying accessories will go to the National Archives.
In an image-conscious society, Michelle Obama embodies the importance of honing a signature style and remaining true to it, said Mikki Taylor author of "Commander-in-Chic: Every Woman's Guide to Managing Her Style Like a First Lady."
Developing a personal style that fits our lives and our bodies frees us from worrying about what to wear and lets us focus on what really matters.
Michelle Obama's choice of attire is among the few genuine unknowns surrounding President Barack Obama's second term inaugural. And while it may seem laughable to some, it’s an endorsement that could potentially mean millions of dollars in new business for a designer. Her decision to wear a flowing ivory gown by young designer Jason Wu to the inaugural balls four years ago made him a major force in the fashion industry. The ruby-colored chiffon and velvet dress was a follow-up to the white gown Wu made for her in 2009.
"I can't believe it. It's crazy," said Wu. "To have done it once was already the experience of my life. To have a second time is tremendous."She paired the dress with a handmade diamond embellished ring by jewelry designer Kimberly McDonald, and shoes designed by Jimmy Choo. At the end of the inaugural festivities, the first lady's outfit and accompanying accessories will go to the National Archives.
In an image-conscious society, Michelle Obama embodies the importance of honing a signature style and remaining true to it, said Mikki Taylor author of "Commander-in-Chic: Every Woman's Guide to Managing Her Style Like a First Lady."Developing a personal style that fits our lives and our bodies frees us from worrying about what to wear and lets us focus on what really matters.
Her outfits emphasize fashion and function, reflecting her broader platform of healthy and active living, said decorative arts historian Carmela Spinelli, chair of the Savannah College of Art and Design's fashion department. When she bares her arms for a gym class with schoolchildren, she makes headlines on the politics page and the style section, inspiring Americans to hit the floor for push-ups and reconsider sheaths under cardigans.
Her support for emerging designers of diverse backgrounds and influences has bolstered the fashion industry's bottom line while reflecting the country's diverse cultural landscape, Spinelli said.
Designer Jason Wu and his sketch for Michelle's custom designed Inauguration Gown
Owning your personal style makes shopping easier because you can do so without feeling beholden to trends. Sticking to what flatters you also helps you dress with confidence each morning without feeling the need to seek approval from others.
Michelle Obama is tall and statuesque but she's not the typical model size. Yet she looks great in whatever she wears because she has figured out what works for her body and lifestyle and stays true to her personal style, said celebrity stylist Phillip Bloch.
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