Get stylish with some checked items…
ASOS Checked Trapper Hat
Oscar de la Renta Plaid Straw Straw Fairfax
Burberry Exploded Check Wellington Boots
Topshop Check Bow Top Shopper Bag
LeSportsac Laptop Sleeve
Throughout the two year campaign, there have been countless articles, discussions, conversations and blog posts about Michelle Obama’s style. I’m a culprit of it as well. I’m addicted to Mrs.-O.org (a great source for Mrs. O!) and there are days when I just can’t help but type in “Michelle Obama” on Google just to see what she wore, where she wore it, what she did that day and what she accomplished.
Some argue that this style icon discussion is demoralizing and that she is there to do mreo than just “look good” next to Obama. Let’s face it, when a woman does anything in the eyes of the public, her attire is ALWAYS a topic. Don’t deny it. In fact, in our day and age, even the men are subject to such scrutiny. The thing is, this fascination over Michelle that has developed over time just proves that she does do more than just “looking good.”
The American public are looking for change, they want change; that’s why they elected Obama as their new President. Michelle’s different wardrobe fits that message perfectly.
Steering away from the traditional “First Lady” look, Michelle has opted to incorporate her own style, giving people a closer look at her family’s ways. As I mentioned before, she cleverly pairs mass-marketed items such as those from J.Crew, Gap and H&M with higher-end pieces, showing her down-to-earth qualities and that style is not just for the wealthy.
Her style also gives a voice to young American designers, who in an economic crisis like this one, are probably greatful for advertising of such magnitude. It’s been a long time since someone entering the White house made such an impact on the Fashion industry and it’s clear that Barack is not the only one doing so.
The Obamas are a young First Family; making them more identifiable to the youth. They are also very different. They show affection for each other; kiss each other; hug each other. Their love and humble personalities will translate directly to the White House. So along with this new administration comes a fresh, unique and hopeful outlook for America.
As for the people that merely think of Mrs. O as eye candy, they must have tuned in to the wrong channel during the Democratic National Convention.
To me, Michelle Obama’s style and approach shows a close resemblance to Princess Di. I for one am eager to see what Mrs. O will bring to the White House in the days to come, in terms of her actions, her commitments and most importantly, her style.
More on Mrs. O…
Last night at the inaugural balls, she sparkled in a one-strapped winter white silk organza gown embroidered with silver thread and crystals. The dress was designed by Jason Wu, a former Parsons student. I can’t help to feel some sort of pride here! The 26-year-old designer, not known as a household name just yet, only launched his own collection in 2006 so this was definitely a moment for him as well.
I think Mr. O summed it up perfectly when he said, “How good looking is my wife?”
The day is finally here! Obama is set to rule! There’s nothing but excitement everywhere. What am I most excited about? The outfit Mrs. O graced us with. Designed by former Creative Director of Anne Klein, Isabel Toledo (wife to Ruben Toledo, the infamous mind behind the Spring 2008 Nordstrom ads), the ensemble was not only appropriate for Michelle’s style herself, but everything from the silhouette to the colour just embraced her husband’s message, his fresh administration and set the tone for the White House.
The outfit was pale gold with a chartreuse undertone, very complimenting for Michelle. The ensemble, made of lace-brocade, consisted of a sheath dress with a jewelled neckline and a matching collarless coat. The coat was cleverly closed with a mustard-gold bow. For layering in between (even Mrs. O gets cold), she wore a mustard gold three-quarter-sleeved cardigan and a scarf (cashmere maybe?) To finish off the outfit, Michelle had olive green leather gloves from J.Crew.
I approve, Mrs. O. I approve. (And Mr. O, you look pretty dashing yourself, too!)
Bbbrrrrr….it’s so cold in New York and the wind just makes it worse! I want to cover every inch of myself when I go outside. If only I had this…
Kenny Hood by Eugenia Kim
I love when I see art that is different; art that is beyond creative; art that makes me wonder exactly what went on in the artist’s head. And that’s exactly why I find Alberto Seveso, an Italian Illustrator and Graphic Designer, so fascinating. His art is created by a process called “sperm shaping,” which is, mixing colour vectors with photos, mainly black and white. Here is some of Alberto’s work…
We’re only 6 days away from embarking on the Obama reign and while I’m still itching to find out what Mrs. O will wear, the launch of the “Runway for Change Inaugural Collection” has kept my fashion genes happy for now.
A handful of elite designers have designed clothing and accessories ranging from $45 – $75 to commemorate the inauguration of the new President, all of which can be purchased at Obama’s official online store. I didn’t even know he had one! Proceeds from the products will be used to fund the many inaugural festivities.
Here are some of my favourite products…
Change Ladies T-Shirt by Beyonce & Tina Knowles for House of Dereon
Hope Anchor Ladies Fine Jersey T-Shirt by Nanette Lepore
Dare to Dream Ladies Asphalt Grey Tank Top by Zac Posen
Racerback Tank Top by Alexander Wang
Vote Hope T Ladies White T-Shirt by Tory Burch
Obama Stands Out From the Crowd T-Shirt
Obama Bracelet by Proenza Schouler
Be the Change Scarf by Rachel Roy
Obama Flower Tote Bag by Derek Lam
Obama '08 Button Tote Bag by Marc Jacobs
Obama '08 Love Tote Bag by Diane Von Furstenberg
At the 66th Annual Golden Globe Awards last night, flocks of A-listers paraded down the red carpet in recession-friendly gowns. Classic? Yes. Elegant? Oh yes. Boring? ABSOLUTELY! For the most part, the stars looked stunning in their minimal yet glamourous pieces but they lacked some serious wow-factors. Anyone remember Marion Cotillard’s Gaultier mermaid dress at the Oscars last year? Or Anne Hathaway’s Versace dress at the Venice Film Festival in September? That’s the kind of meat we’re looking for on the red carpet!
One of the most popular shapes of the night – the mermaid.
Jennifer Morrison in Oscar de la Renta; Debra Messing in Vera Wang
Kate Beckinsale in J. Mendel; Eva Longoria in Reem Acra; Drew Barrymore in Christian Dior
The Hollywood crowd also played it safe with pale shades and nudes.
America Ferrera in Oscar de la Renta; Amanda Seyfried in Stella McCartney
Isla Fisher in Carlos Miele; Vanessa Hudgens in Alberta Ferretti; Penelope Cruz in Armani Prive
The only thing worse than sameness on a red carpet is an overflowing, boring amount of black so I was extremely thankful for the folks that replaced black with shades of purple.
Rumer Willis in Reem Acra; Anna Paquin in Herve Leroux
Hayden Panettiere in Gianfranco Ferre; Maria Menounos in Ina Soltani
The safely played red carpet gave a chance for some to shine. I’m not sure how I feel about Renee Zellweger’s number but props to her for taking such a risk! Laura Linney’s gown looked like it was draped just for her and the yellow seemed fresh amongst the doomed-coloured crowd.
Laura Linney in Elie Saab; Renee Zellweger in Carolina Herrera
Heidi Klum and Maggie Gyllenhaal were perhaps the biggest risk takers in my book with their adorable prints and classy flowers.
Maggie Gyllenhaal in Lanvin; Heidi Klum in James Galanos
I’m normally pro-Lopez but last night’s number really took a toll on me. Mamma really needs to learn how to cover up!
Jennifer Lopez in Marchesa
My favourite look of the night had to be Eva Mendes. Though she succumbed to the minimalist, one-toned, strapless look with a sculptured Dior gown, she perfectly paired it with a vintage Van Cleef & Arpels turquoise necklace to make herself stand out. Nice job, Mendes!
Eva Mendes in Christian Dior
