Michelle Obama, A Real Belle at the Inauguration Ceremony & Ball

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President Obama‘s 2nd inauguration has come and gone, pundits have dissected his 19-minute speech and others have praised his ultra liberal point. But the real important kitchen sink conversation is the fashion that made up the weekend’s festivities, especially yesterday.

The day for the First family started at a prayer service followed by a visit to the MLK bust. There, we saw what Michelle Obama was to show off to the world during the public swearing in. Her new bangs were still the haute topic (and I love, love, love them), but the more subdued dress and coat of choice took over for a few hours.

A Thom Browne dress — worn with Jimmy Choo shoes — designed to mirror a man’s tie, perfectly fit her shapely body. I would have opted out of the darker blue bolero. But, the killer touch was the coat! Her leather glovers bedazzled belt and shoes (for the morning service) were from J. Crew.

 ‘The inspiration for the coat in navy silk textured tie jacquard fabric with a fitted bodice and undulated skirt over a dress of navy, loden, gray, pink and white jacquard based on a men’s silk tie jacquard fabric, was the first lady herself.’ — Thom Brown

But the big wow moment everyone in the fashion industry was anxiously waiting for was when president Obama introduced her at the Commander-in-Chief Inaugural Ball…. she came out ever so graceful approaching her husband in a floor length ruby red gown by Jason Wu. Looking like the true regal belle she is, Mrs. Obama chose Jason Wu for a second time, slated to be the most important highlight of his career.

Alina Cho of CNN, rocking bangs herself, got some exclusive images of Wu’s sketch which detail the gown, including some velvet texture, a gold ring holding the halter and a draped skirt. Ju coyishly admitted to be working a late night and suffering from a slow Internet connection when his studio saw Mrs. Obama come out from behind the velvet curtains. More screams… just like in 2009. Only no pizza this time.

I loved it all. She definitely toned it down this year, and while she’s surprised many by wearing a bold red for the ball, I think the color is telling of her vibrant, joyful and powerful position in Washington. I thought it was a genius choice. Not to mention she looks simply gorgeous in it (and those arms… )

I’m thinking I’ll be following her fashion with a more keen eye this year, especially since the Obama girls are getting older and they’ll be taking more cues from Mami. They looked cute all weekend, too.

Oh, and wondering how high Jason Wu’s ante went up…

All of Mrs. Obama’s accessories including the gown are on their way to the National Archives.

Eat well, love unapologetically, pray with true intention, and take care of yourself.

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