On Friday, January 20, 2017, our country will be making a huge transition as we say goodbye to our first African American Commander and Chief, President Barack Obama. In the same breath, we will also be saying goodbye to our first lady, Michelle Obama who has influenced women around the world with her ability to stand strong next to her husband and look fashionably fly while doing so. There has never been a more fashionable First Lady. While some may admit that the beautiful Jackie Kennedy showed the world the meaning of personal style while her husband was in office, Michelle Obama not only showcased trends on the cusp of their emergence, but she also introduced fashionistas to budding designers. Keep reading to see our top 10 looks FLOTUS has worn over the course of her tenure at the White House!
In 2008 the First Lady was a bit more reserved with her looks. She had a tendency to wear darker shades and covered up her well-toned arms that we all swoon over. This was important to note because the FLOTUS had a message to convey and was coming into her own as one of the most influential women in America. Fashion God, Andre Leon Talley is even quoted saying, “The First Lady is not flipping through fashion magazines! She is simply going to her closet and picking out something to wear.”
In 2008, the first lady-elect stepped onto the stage at Grant Park in Chicago wearing American designer, Narciso Rodriguez.
Retrieved: November 20, 2016
Walking across the stage, she donned a red-and-black sleeveless sheath dress with a corset like detailing crisscrossing across the front. Mrs. Obama then paired the scoop-neck dress with a black cardigan.
It was in 2009 when we started to see her show a little more of her personal style.
Awaiting the Indian Prime Minister, Michelle was photographed wearing a sleeveless silk-chiffon column gown made by Naeem Khan.
Retrieved: November 20, 2016
She accessorized the look with diamond bangles and a pair of custom chunky bejeweled earrings from Bochic to bring out the silver sequins in the dress. Don’t you just love it!?
Michelle Obama served as muse and model for little-known designer (at the time) Jason Wu.
Retrieved: November 20, 2016
Wu created a white one shoulder chiffon gown that FLOTUS wore to the 2009 Inaugural ball. The dress took breaths away from so many and is now placed in the Smithsonian Museum where all can admire its beauty.
OH! And, what about the little number Michelle wore for her 2010 speaking appearance in Washington D.C. at the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) Science forum?
Retrieved: November 20, 2016
Her pink two-piece L’Wren Scott was super sweet while still doused with a touch of edge… What a combination! RIGHT?!
At the 2012 DNC, Michelle selected to wear a custom-made color blocked print frock made by Tracy Reese.
Retrieved: November 20, 2016
The sleeveless pink and gold dress adorned with icy blue trim allowed her to show off her chiseled arms in the classiest way.
At the 2012 Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards, the First Lady depicted the true definition of a “cool mom.”
Retrieved: November 20, 2016
In her deep v-neck metallic hound’s tooth top, pointy black patent leather stilettos and slick, skin-tight gunmetal skinny jeans, Big Meech hit the scene and quickly stole the whole show!
When we said Michelle sets trends; we meant it!
Case in point, Michelle’s J.Crew ensemble that she sported in 2012 on Jay Leno’s The Tonight Show made major headlines.
Retrieved: November 20, 2016
She shouted out the brand admitting that they are her go-to store for style. Immediately after, J.Crew saw a skyrocket in sales and stocks alike. For that plug, J.Crew should supply the entire Obama family with free clothing for life! I mean, it’s only fair…
On her latest trip to England to meet with Queen Elizabeth for her 90th birthday lunch, Michelle wore a stunning Oscar de La Renta dress composed of a lovely floral print with mixed hues of purple.
Retrieved: November 20, 2016
The first lady walked out onto the stage at the 2016 Democratic National Convention in a custom blue Christian Siriano dress with cap sleeves.
Retrieved: November 20, 2016
The flouncy dress featured a simple band at the waist and hit just below the knees. She paired the frock with silver stiletto pumps, and silver hooped earrings.
Last but not least, in case there was a little doubt. Mrs. Obama proved that there is no competition when it comes to the fashion game and the State Dinner.
Retrieved: November 20, 2016
Another final State Dinner, Big Meech dropped jaws in a floor length, rose gold chainmail gown designed by Atelier Versace.
As we say goodbye to our favorite and most beloved First family, we’d like to honor Michelle Obama and thank her for all of her contributions to our country as well as to the fashion world. She has officially changed the role of fashion in politics… FOREVER!
What’s your favorite Michelle Obama look? Make sure to tell us in the comments section below!
Written by: Chay Rodriguez