In 2009, the fashion world waited with bated breath to see
what the first lady to-be would wear to her husband's historic inauguration,
and Michelle Obama did not disappoint. From receptions to black tie dinners, Obama
continues to make superb sartorial choices that make fashion editors and bloggers swoon. Let's take a look back at the first lady’s best formal-wear looks.
Off-the-Shoulder Gown - Stunning
Accessories
Welcoming Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip to
a reciprocal dinner in
London, the first lady was the epitome of elegance in a sleek Ralph Lauren gown. To top it off, she donned a stunning statement necklace
and matching bracelet. The off-the-shoulder silhouette has become one of her signature looks, and this number has us
wanting four more years of gorgeous gowns.
One-Shoulder Gown - Toned Arms
Even if
you're not the most avid MObama fan, you have to admit that she knows
how to dress to show off her assets. For a state dinner with South Korean
President Lee Myung-bak and his wife Kim Yoon-ok, the first lady chose this
purple, one-shoulder jersey gown
with a jeweled belt. The dress by Korean-American designer Doo-Ri Chung makes
us envious of Mrs. Obama's toned arms.
Couture - A Bit of Culture
Not
many ladies can pull off a couture gown, but MObama looked stunning in this red
and black gown by Sarah Burton of the British design house Alexander McQueen.
The first lady donned this statement-making number to a state dinner
with Chinese President Hu Jintao. The gown's hue was widely
considered a nod to China, where red historically symbolizes joy and good
fortune.
Beaded Gown - First Impressions
The first
lady set the standard for impeccable evening wear
when she wore this beaded nude number designed by Indian-born
American designer Naeem Khan to the first state dinner in the Obama White House.
She completed the look with gold bangles, bold earrings and a wrap.