POLITICAL FASHION: A New York State of Mind at the 2013 Inaugural Balls

It seems that it was definitely a “New York State of Mind” with the inaugural ball fashion.

First Lady Michelle Obama was a “Lady in Red” last night in a custom-made gown by New York designer Jason Wu.

The “Big Apple” red colored chiffon and velvet gown (paired with a handmade diamond jewelry designer Kimberly Mc Donald and shoes by Jimmy Choo) is a follow up to the white gown by Wu that Mrs. Obama wore in 2009 at the President’s first Inaugural Ball—propelling the Manhattan-based designer to a household name. The gorgeous red dress was the only one Jason Wu submitted for the First Lady’s consideration. He collaborated with McDonald on the jeweled neckline—made of real diamonds.

The Obamas made their first appearance at the Commander-in-Chief Ball, honoring the members of the Armed Forces. There the First Couple was serenaded by Jennifer Hudson. The songstress, dressed in a classic black mermaid style gown, sang a lively rendition of the Al Green classic, “Let’s Stay Together.”

Dr. Jill Biden, wife of the Vice President, was a vision in blue in a gown by another New York designer, Vera Wang. The dapper Bidens were serenaded by singer and actor Jamie Foxx’s rendition of the Ray Charles classic “I Can’t Stop Loving You.”

Also donning red last night was singer, Alicia Keys who wore a Michael Kors (another New York designer) gown with an open back for her performance at last night’s event.

At the end of the inaugural festivities, the first lady’s outfits and accompanying accessories will go to the National Archives.

First Lady Obama in a custom red Jason Wu gown (Photo Courtesy of Getty Images)

The First Couple at the Commander-in-Chief’s Ball (Photo Courtesy of Getty Images)

Jennifer Hudson (Photo Courtesy of AP)

Jill Biden in Vera Wang (Photo Courtesy of Getty Images)

Alicia Keys in Michael Kors (Getty Images)

Jason Wu’s infamous sketch

POLITICAL FASHION: The 57th Presidential Inauguration

First Lady Michelle Obama’s new haircut (the beauty world all agrees that bangs suit her perfectly) was definitely a trending topic for the past few days, but today everyone is talking about the fabulous custom Thom Browne coat she sported at the public swearing in ceremony, Mrs. Obama added a little flair and showed off her curves with an ornate belt by J Crew (seems to be her favorite retailer). Under that fabulous designer coat, the First Lady donned a Thom Browne dress and Reed Krakoff cardigan for the afternoon festivities.

Not outshining their mom, the First Daughters looked amazing (and age appropriate) in their purple wool coats. Malia, the elder of the Obama girls, rocked a plum J Crew coat while little sister, Sasha, sported a lilac Kate Spade coat. These two are definitely following in their mom’s footsteps as fashionistas in training.

The Obamas and the crowds assembled were serenaded by some stylish ladies today including King Bey who se moving rendition of the National Anthem had many in the crowd near tears. Beyonce arrived with her husband (Jay Z) in a Christian Dior coat which she removed revealing an amazing Pucci gown while she performed.

Now the fashion world waits to see who will be the designer to dress the First Lady for tonight’s inaugural balls.

For more pictures from today’s Inauguration events, check out my full article on the Examiner.

Beyonce and Jay Z (via Getty Images)

Malia and Sacha Obama (via Getty Images)

Michelle Obama in Thom Browne coat and J Crew belt (via Getty Images)

The very stylish Obama Family (via Getty Images)

POLITICAL FASHION 101: Michelle Obama v. Anne Romney

Surprisingly, before midnight on November 7^th, the 45^th President of the United States had been determined. This capped off the most expensive (if not one of the most expensive) campaign seasons in history with a tab of nearly $6 billion. As millions of Americans waited with baited breath of concession and victory speeches that finally took place in the wee hours of the morning, many a fashionista was also playing particular attention to what Michelle Obama and Ann Romney were wearing. More than just a dress, the garment of choice by the First Lady of the United States and the woman who wanted to be, spoke volumes.

For the full story on the Examiner, click the photo below or click here.

The First Family on Election Night 2012