Last updated : Thursday, January 28, 2010

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The Political Importance of a Dress

The First Lady's style pick for the President's first official State of the Union address was an important one. Obama's popularity is at an all time low with rising concerns about the economy, health care, and national security. Therefore Michelle's demeanor and ensemble had to match her husband's sentiment - somber but confident, glamorous but not glitzy. It may seem silly to put such importance on the First Lady's outfit, but she's under constant scrutiny over what she wears, and with Obama trying to gain back his popularity, Michelle couldn't come across as too celebratory, a.k.a. a nix bright colors. She also couldn't wear anything too chic (no sleeveless), or expensive - it would seem insensitive to the ever growing number of unemployed Americans. Finally, should couldn't look boring, dull, or severe or she would be panned by the ever growing number of style critics who are judging whether or not she will prove to be a style icon.

So did she accomplish her goals? She made a very smart decision in choosing American designer, Isaac Mizrahi. Even thought the dress from his fall 2009 collection retails at about $1800, people associate the designer with his Target line and therefore criticism of Michelle spending too much moula on clothes could be avoided. The crew neck, long sleeve plum dress was in fact a perfect pick. The color was beautiful on Michelle, the silhouette simple and elegant, and the pearls, although a bit matronly, a solid choice. The best part about it? You can easily get this look. Tulip skirts are a huge trend and will continue to be so in spring. We paired ours with a black cashmere crew and a strand of faux pearls. The whole look? $352.50.

Yoox skirt, $185
J Crew sweater $145
Express pearls $22.50

 

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