Poetic Artistry

It's been more than 100 days since President Obama took office and the First Lady still manages to maintain her faithful flock of fashion gawkers. We just can't get enough of Michie O's eclectic sense of style.

Just when we think we've decoded her uniform of moderately priced J. Crew separates paired with couture kicks and a healthy mix of American design labels, she takes us off the trail with an unexpected find. A friend asked me to get the scoop on the asymmetrical number pictured above. The Japanese-inspired print blouse was the ideal choice for Michie O in her role as hostess for a recent Poetry Jam at the White House. The piece is from the London-based design duo Bass & Brooke. It was featured in their Spring 2009 RTW collection along with a dress of the same fabric. You can find similar items from the label at Neiman Marcus.

Michie O completes the artistic ensemble with dramatic earrings, makeup and flawless hair. The earrings aren't bad, but I'm partial to cocktail rings. A big brightly-hued bauble would have really set this look off for me.

Individuality is the New Black

Michie O turned a reverent morning at the National Cathedral into a hallelujah moment for this fashion enthusiast when she showed up in a retro number from New York designer Tracy Feith. Another designer who was hovering just under the radar until today, Feith could soon become even more of a household name. WWD reports he will debut a collection for Target's Go International franchise on May 17.

The First Lady's classically cut day dress was a figure flattering choice with its fitted bodice, three quarter sleeves and full skirt. She paired it perfectly with simple black flats. In a sea of dark monochromatics, she was a standout in the Japanese inspired print of black, green, gold and cream. It was classic with a "wink."

Inauguration Day 2009

One of the most anticipated days of the year has finally arrived. The winds of change moved briskly into our nation's capital breathing new life into the hopes and aspirations of people all over the world. It's as if there was a collective exhale. It goes without saying that witnessing President Barack Obama take the oath of office was no less than soul stirring. It will remain one of the most memorable days of my life indeed.

But for me, seeing what our new First Lady Michelle Obama would wear to the swearing in ceremony and the nearly dozen inaugural balls throughout the evening was just as inspiring. Michie O (as I've dubbed her with a nod to the equally fashionable Jackie O) was a vision in gold. The vibrant Isabel Toledo designed dress and matching coat clearly signaled the dawning of a new day, while her one-shouldered ball gown created by Jason Wu was a fashion-forward choice befitting a modern fairytale princess.

Michie O has impeccable style. Style, unlike fashion, is no victim of whim or fancy. True style is a creative expression. It communicates one's confidence and individuality. And at its very best, inspires others to put their most stylish stilettos forward. We look forward to following in your footsteps Michie O.