The election of Barack Obama has created renewed interest in the American political landscape for many. There is excitement in the air for change as well as for the new residents of the White House. The media have dubbed it the second coming of Camelot.
As the Obama family prepares to take up residency at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue this month, the world waits with anticipation. Today’s picture of presidential perfection is much more transparent. The Obamas seem to many like the family next door which allows many to relate to them more than they have to previous first families.
The couple’s relevance permeates into all areas of lifestyle...even fashion! Many a headline has been written in respected publications about Michelle Obama’s personal style. Journalists and talk TV hosts have described her look as being in the style of a modern day Jackie Kennedy.
Ms. Obama claims not to have a stylist. She does however have relationships with designers such as Maria Pinto in Chicago who furnished the beautiful purple sleeveless sheath dress and the turquoise ¾ sleeve dress she wore at the Democratic National Convention. (Trebay, NY Times June 8, 2008)
Amongst all of the hard political issues, as always the image and wardrobe choices of the candidates’ wives made news. A casual dress worn by Michelle Obama on The View sold out in one day. When asked about her style Ms. Obama explained that she enjoys every day economical fashions as much as she enjoys the occasional designer gown.
The dress was from an American chain store called White House Black Market and retailed for $148.00 USD. Click here to watch Michelle Obama in The View wearing the dress and chatting about her wardrobe at the 12:00 minute mark.
Not only is being relatable and economical politically savvy, it became a trend much before the start of the credit crisis. Many designers have expanded their empires by teaming up with retail chains to create affordable fashion for the everyday woman. For instance, the partnerships between Isaac Mizrahi & Target, and Vera Wang & Kohl’s.
Once again we receive the message that it’s not how much it costs, but how you wear your clothing that counts. Of course quality matters, but what matters most is whether you know how to put yourself together (accessories, coordination of pieces, colour combinations etc.) and walk with comfort and confidence.
My advice: Wear what you like and wear what you can afford. I’ve known many a person who would rather have designer shoes than a good meal but it may not be worth it. These days even our style icons pull from the rack as well as the couture closet!
Photos of Michelle Obama's outfits: New York Times fashion article
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