Sunday
Apr052009
A Statement Bow
Sunday, April 5, 2009 at 9:49 AM 
Photo by Attila Kisbenedek/AFP/Getty Images
First Lady Mrs. O visited St. Vitus Cathedral at Hradcany Square in Prague today, wearing an oversize bow blouse by Moschino, a Michael Kors black pencil skirt and her signature Azzedine Alaia belt. The bow blouse, certainly the focal point of the ensemble, is from Moschino's Spring 2009 collection, seen here.
We've seen several sides to the First Lady's wardrobe this week - at times showing grown-up restraint, and at others, modern femininity. We love, then, that one of her final sartorial notes projects a delightfully fun and playful spirit. For the full graphic effect of the bow blouse with black overcoat, click here.
tagged Alaia, Michael Kors, Moschino in Outfits
Alaia, Michael Kors, Moschino in Outfits
Reader Comments (164)
I find the bow distracting from her overall beauty, it reminds me of Jessica Biel's Oscar dress this year.
Her hair is done beautifully.
Mrs T, Please upload the full length picture of the coat and bow, WOWWWWWWWWW - she sure ended this trip on a high Note!
http://news(DOT)yahoo (DOT)/nphotos/Michelle-Obama-first-lady-Michelle-Obama/ss/events/pl/050108michelleobama/im:/090405/481/49952892a4c144a88f69026d2fb694a2/;_ylt=Aj_ATqEETsjcWRaZKvepurPlWMcF
I think she looks okay with this oversized bow. I do find it distracting though. I like that she tries different things. Some work, some don't
I adored this look! I was sitting here having my morning coffee, scrolled down the yahoo news page, and broke out into a huge smile when I saw her lovely shirt. It is such a brave look that I hope all those self-appointed experts who, yesterday, were insisting that Mrs. O and "her staff" had listened to their criticism and was now toning down the quirkyness, will see that it's just not the case! She will always dress for herself, as we should all have learned by now.
Mrs. O has already started her trip back home, so the great European adventure is over now. I hope we will have an open thread at some point where everyone can rank what their favorite looks from the week were.
I love the bow. I really love the full length coat. Michelle has an enviable collection of beautiful coats. I like the ensemble much better with the coat than with the cardigan - this shirt is rather full in the front and looks almost maternity (which we know isn't true!), especially when viewed from the side. The coat keeps it in proportion.
http://news(dot)yahoo(dot)com/nphotos/Michelle-Obama-first-lady-Michelle-Obama/ss/events/pl/050108michelleobama/im:/090405/481/49952892a4c144a88f69026d2fb694a2/;_ylt=Aj_ATqEETsjcWRaZKvepurPlWMcF#photoViewer=/090405/photos_pl_afp/03b928ccc0f6ffd7b2daac823eb5f0eb
Good Morning Mrs. T,
Is there some way you can stream your interview on MSNBC? I can't seem to find a site that shows it.
Thanks
The bow is fabulous. The outfit as a whole wasn't bad, but with a different styling, it could have been a knockout. This is why I think the First Lady needs a stylist. It's not to say she doesn't have "style" because she does. More than most women and certainly, as we've seen this week, the only First Lady in the world on her level is Carla Bruni. We saw that with our own eyes and it's the truth. All of those other wives looked like they got their outfits from JC Penny's in the 80's!
But back to Michelle. A stylist would have helped her style the outfit better. FLOTUS has style, meaning she knows how to dress. Style as a noun. But not everyone gets how to "style" as in a verb. That's why it's a job and people can make a lot of money doing it. Styling as a verb is not just about picking out clothes. Michelle can do that fine. It's also about making sure the clothes fit right, knowing ,how the clothes will look in photos and on tv, making sure clothes stay in their place, making last minute adjustments like hemming pants or putting a pin here or there. All kinds of things that your average person doesn't think about.
If I were to play stylist with this outfit to make it really work for her, I would first off, lose the belt, the cardigan, and tuck the shirt in. I would do that most importantly to make the bow the focal point. With the belt and the blouse hanging out at the bottom, and the cardigan, it's too much going on and your eye goes straight to her tummy. The way the outfit is styled is giving her the exact same visual effect as the red/black election night dress. Not good look. Also, because the shirt is not tucked in and the belt is riding up to her breasts, the wind is blowing up under her blouse and making her look preggers. You don't want to make a woman look pregnant if she's not. Fashion mistake. She does look pregnant in a couple of pictures, so don't be surprised if people start the "is she or isn't she pregnant" again.
So, I'd make sure the shirt was fitted and tucked into the skirt, which is perfect. Then, I'd place a belt right at the waist of the skirt, which I assume is sitting on her natural waist line. The belt would be no more than an inch wide and be either red, blue, or green to throw in some color.
So you have a basically good idea, but styling it differently makes it a more polished outfit.
I know some people get sensitive and get angry when people say she should hire a stylist, but that's not saying Mrs. O doesn't have style and doesn't know how to dress herself. There is a difference between style, the noun, and style, the verb. I seriously doubt when she put the belt on and left the shirt untucked, that she knew it would give the optical illusion of a big belly. Most people don't think about that kind of stuff, even people who love clothes. But stylists are hired to think about and fix that kind of stuff. So when I say she needs a stylist, I'm not saying she can't dress. I'm saying she needs someone to smooth out the edges that she doesn't know are there.
Good morning Bevi! I'm not sure if it's available online, but I'll have a look. This morning was tough - oddly, the questions didn't really focus on Mrs. O's fashion and style.
@ Tess,
I truly understand your point and appreciate your genuine comments. I love the majority of Michelle's clothing choices, but the "styling" part of those that she picks out is what a stylist would do. From what I read about Michelle, she has stated that she loves fashion, but she doesn't think about it all the time and she doesn't like a lot of fuss.
That's probably why within her staff, she doesn't have a full-time stylist yet--maybe when she goes abroad again, she probably will. I know over time, these incremental changes will occur b/c even Oprah asked her about the supposed "baby bump". I think that Michelle is focused on the truly important things, her marriage, children, social issues and her general well-being and taking care of her body and mind through this crazy transition.
But Tess, I do understand your point. There is no doubt that Mrs. O is stylish, but once you pick out the clothes, you need to be fitted and somewhat analyzed about how possible looks come across on TV, print, sitting down, crossing legs, etc. However, I think that's how a lot of celebrities then start becoming so self-conscious and depressed about their looks. Maybe Michelle wants to stay happy without all the fussing over how she looks. I truly understand both sides and Michelle is finding her way in looking polished while staying confident, independent of her own choices and keeping her sanity with mob-like press.
But she is new on the world stage; her staff is new, and I know over time, most outfits will be styled better. But she's done such a great job as our First Lady ambassador. I know she's surrounded by good, honest friends that will be kind about any adjustments that need to be made. But overall, she has splendid taste.
I think the outfit was entirely appropriate for a trip to the Cathedral. The only thing that bothered me about it was the bottom of the blouse, which reminded me of an apron.
And I really wasn't crazy about the placement of the belt. I think there was really no need for that belt, had the blouse been tucked in to the skirt.
I still love Ms. Obama's style, but this look was not one of my favorites, though, her hair and makeup looked beautiful!!!
I like the blouse, but not the white bit sticking out in back underneath the cardigan. It looks unintentional.
I do wish she'd worn more colors -- these past few days have been heavy on the black, and Mrs. O looks great in colors.
Tess, fair evaluation. I also think some editing would be helpful. The only thing is that I have seen some outrageous mistakes in the celebrity fashion world so I am not sure I have too much faith in stylists. Clinton and Stacey from What not to Wear, have good taste, though.
Tess, I completely agree with you. She looks great but she needs a stylist. I mean who wouldn't in her position. I'm tired just looking at all of her outfits this week and I wasn't the one wearing the clothes. You can tell she's a lil tired too with jet lag having been all over europe with a 5 to 6 hrs difference. And I think that's the reason why she needs a stylist.
Since it was reported that her hair stylist is the one doing her hair now, her hair has been looking great. She need to do the same with her clothes. One can understand she's only human and can't be perfect all the time.
I agree w/ Bevi - her styling ideas would have given Michelle a more "finished" look. M looks radiant, though. She probably got a good night's sleep for the first time in days.
How wonderful to see her wear a bow - right on trend - without looking frou-frou, and to see a more playful side after a week of very serious style
www.frockaholics.com
“It is the unseen, unforgettable, ultimate accessory of fashion that heralds your arrival and prolongs your departure.” Coco Chanel
I remembered the C-span footage of Mrs. O talking with the students at the DC high school. One of the girls asked her does she pick out and style her own clothes everyday, and Michelle says "Yes". So while Ikram in Chicago is the supplier and sends a lot Michelle's way, the First Lady picks them out and makes her own daily decisions. I know how she must feel to keep some independence, but all of this must be so overwhelming. She doesn't want to live like a princess and be picked over everyday, but she wants to look her best too.
Maybe over time, she'll get a consultant part-time or maybe full-time when she travels abroad. She has so much on her plate--getting rest, thinking of her girls, her family and the country, she'll probably decide to get someone to help out with this, if nothing but on an as-needed basis.
Mrs. T,
Thanks so much! I have completely missed all your interviews except the first (?) one you gave to Meredith Viera on Today. This site is now in the #1 spot on Google for Michelle Obama's style.
Re: Michelle's choice of black for her wardrobe - Her look of recent days has been understated but very classy. She may not want to overshadow the FLs who host her - she is already beautiful, statuesque, and the center of attention as it is. Just a thought. All of her clothes are beautifully made and structured. She showed a playful side in London, but that city has been known for playful fashion for decades - Posh?
Speaking of which - Top Shop is open in NYC- yeah!! My daughter is in heaven!
The blossoms are out in DC and I am wondering if MO has something scheduled to commemorate this lovely time of year.
As I said in the previous thread--Mrs T was fantastic this morning even more so because the interviewer was being very obtuse and Mrs T was sharp and very gracious (I would have just looked at that reporter blankly or said, huh?). Go Mrs T!
Janelle,
I don't think getting a stylist would make Mrs.O depressed or less confident about herself. This is powerhouse Michelle Obama we're talking about, not a pop star with low self-esteem. Making sure she looks her best is not going to change her for the worse. It only helps her.
The fact is, she's pretty much the most photographed woman in the world. At least she was this week and will be every time she takes a trip. I personally feel it's not a lot of fuss for someone to say "take off the cardigan and belt. Make the bow the focal point and tuck in the shirt." Doing that gives her a polished and focused outfit.
The fact is, the way we present ourselves does matter. Whether we like it or not and whether it hurts our feelings of not, it does matter. Styling is important for people in the public eye and especially someone like a First Lady, because you want people talking about what you do and say, not trying to figure out your outfit. Take the other day when she spoke at the girls school in London. There is as much news about that infamous sweater when she gave the most inspirational and touching moment we've ever seen from a First Lady.
It's only two months in and I'm sure her styling will come together. But because she faces scrutiny like no other First Lady has, it does need to come together and I don't think it's wrong to say that. I want this First Lady to be known for the great things she does and the inspiration she provides, not for the few outfits that don't work.
I agree with Tess about her points on styling, but I am also wondering if Mrs. O does not have a stylist because it seems excessive, especially considering the times we are in. I think about this, as well: If we were not in an economic downturn, would Mrs. O choose more expensive and haute couture from better-known designers? I think it's a marvelous trend that she is setting with her choices of lesser-known and up-and-coming designers, and I hope it really catches on. I will always applaud her individuality, even if I don't agree with the choices.
I think Bevi made several good points, but Mrs. O doesn't need a "Hollywood" stylist, she just needs someone to help her with all the little particulars, like making sure the outfit looks good in photos, the fit is perfect, and the garments don't shift, etc. She has great taste and she should continue to define and refine her look without too much interference. She should look for an "old pro" who has been in the business for years who understands the important details of elegant dress.
Sorry, I meant Tess - I just noticed that the name is below the comment.
Tess, I forgot she only been a first lady for 2 months and it feels like 2 years!!!!! I'm sorry but I wouldn't go through this for all the money in the world....And that's why I respect her.
@ tess/Patricia,
Everyone is making a lot of great points. The focus should always be on her message and not trying to understand what she's wearing and as Patricia says, help with "the particulars" like belting and fitting.
I don't think a Hollywood stylist would work for her b/c she has a strong opinion about what she likes, but someone to deal with details from time to time so that she can focus on other matters. I just don't think she needs someone there around the clock everyday going through her closet and fitting her before she goes to Ft. Bragg or to children's schools. Periodic consultations and a tailor to expertly fit her clothes may be all that's needed with more full-time help when she travels.
I know it will come, just like the makeup artist, hairstylist, and Ikram came...she'll get assistance. I just want her to keep looking happy and vibrant in her photos. Because right now, she seems truly happy.
I learn so much from all the posters on this site. Thanks!
I have to admit that I'd love it if Michelle was pregnant. A baby in the White House! A new life and all that that symbolizes, the very epitome of change and hope.
I've never in my life sent a gift to a public figure, but if the Obama family has a new arrival, I'm buying a baby present!
I am so surprised that people do not like this outfit....it just goes to show that people truly do have different taste (as people truly loved her LBD outfit in Germany, but it was not on my top list)
for me (in all honesty, not being biased or mushy), this is truly one of her best outfits for me, I love the statement bow, and the fact that she understood that since the bow is big, she toned everything else down with black.
But difference of opinions I guess. But as to the stylist, can you imagine how many people that will let down? (im not saying she should live her live to what everyone else wants), but most love her because of her authencity, can you imagine how disappointed some will be to find out o well, she is just like the celebrities, with their fancy stylist
just my thought, I hope she does not get a stylist for that reason, that she should be who she is, and not live to always having to "wow" us in the fashion industry. We will like some, we will hate some, but she should still be who she is
:-)
*smh* These outfits are okay for the Sidwell and Friends PTA fundraisers but not to accompany the President on his first state tour. They're *cute* and pretty and uncomplicated simple and I wouldn't say she's badly dressed by any means - and surely a woman of her accomplishments is more than the clothes on her back -- but c'mon, Michelle!\
Desiree and Oprah should be planning a fashion intervention upon her return.
Michelle is transitioning from a private to public individual on a world stage. I think that her "get out of my closet" quote still applies here. She wants to make her own clothing choices that suit her taste.
My question is does she take the time to look at photographs of herself at these various events? That may help her to naturally edit some aspects here and there. Overall, she has a great fashion instinct and flair and would seriously dread if she got overly styled.
Looking at the blouse closely, it's really pretty.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/04/05/michelle-obama-sunday-in_n_183220.html
Sorry, but Oprah is the last person to do a fashion intervention. I hope our FLOTUS keeps it real and stays true to her primary focus on family and service rather than veer into obsession about fashion. As much as I love her style and enjoy every moment of her public appearances, I trust she will keep her eye on the prize.
Hi Bevi,
Did you find Mrs. T's interviews? If so where? I would like
to see them also.
Thanks!
you can see the Moschino blouse in black here
http://www.bloomacious.com/bloomacious/2009/04/michelle-watch-onto-prague.html
Tess, I agree with you totally on how I would would Michelle's bow outfit. I would also pull the hair back in a side bun with just a little lift on top and wear a simple pair of pearl earrings as accent jewlery to everything else you stated. I would probably lose the basic black pump and wear a spectater pump or a simple black pump with a little white accent. Michelle is progressing very nicely with her "look" and will continue to evolve over the course of time- Ive already seen such progress. I love watching the fashion progress- it is exciting! cp
Y'all, not all stylists are the crazy Hollywood Rachel Zoe types! LOL. All of the different things you all described are the job of a "stylist", whether they live in Hollywood or Atlanta.
I don't think it's unreasonable at all for her to hire a stylist. It's no more unreasonable for her to have a stylist than it is for her to have a hairstylist and a makeup artist. Since she does know clothes, she wouldn't need a stylist to travel with her. But there's nothing wrong, economic downturn or no economic downturn, with her hiring a stylist to go over her outfits for the week and make sure things fit properly and photograph well. That's not unreasonable at all. And if the right wing tried to criticize her for that, it'll just backfire. Remember, Laura Bush was wearing $15,000 dollar Oscar De La Renta gowns and suits while her husband was president. So they can't even go there over a clothing stylist.
Just like she was open to getting a full time hair stylist and makeup person, I'm sure she'll eventually get a stylist to work with her. But I think it's important for her to get one. She's so phenomenal that the only criticism this woman gets is over the occasional unflattering outfit. And let's face it, unflattering outfits get a hell of a lot more press than the good ones. What did people talk about more this week? The argyle sweater or the gorgeous outfit she wore when they touched down in London? The sweater. And what's even worse, an unflattering outfit garners more attention than important things like championing healthy eating and visiting struggling schools.
In my opinion, a stylist is more than worth she/he helps avoid the occasional bad outfit because it shuts down the only criticism these people can find against Mrs. O. And it's more than worth it cause then people stop talking about the clothes and start talking about her message, which is what's gonna help bring change to this country.
I really like her outfit this morning, without the belt. I dont like hoy it looks, in some pictures it makes her look pregnant, not flatering to her great body.
Her hair looks fabulous. I adore the blouse, but the rest of the outfit is ok.
I agree with Patricia that Mrs. O. needs a little advice on the fine touches. I do NOT want to see her use someone like Rachel Zoe or Andre Leon Talley that will make her into a "styled" icon. I just want someone who will show her photographs and video and explain that she will look even better with just a few more steps. She already knows clothes and what works for her, but the reason why style icons become icons is that last extra touch.
I think Audrey Hepburn is a perfect role model for Mrs. O. -- even though their bodies could not be less alike, they both have/had vibrant personalities, flair, and a knowledge of how to be perfectly in the public eye. There's a wonderful book by her son Sean called "An Elegant Spirit" that contains many hints for Mrs. O. to absorb.
I'm not too sure about this outfit, taken singly each piece is fine but put together...mmm, not so sure. I think it would have worked better if she lost the belt (it was placed too high anyway), tucked in the blouse and wore a simple, very structured, well tailored jacket. Oh well, she's probably exhausted and longing to get back to her kids. I know would be. Overall - well done Michelle, you've done all women proud!
Sorry, I don't like the blouse and I do not feel I need to apologize by saying her hair and makeup look great to compensate. We just have to admit that sometimes she will make fashion mistakes and get over it. By the way, Yes, we do need to focus on the fashion here, becuase this is a STYLE blog. If I want message, I'll go to Politico or another news blog.
What a great site this is!
But that's the million dollar question...how do you stay true to yourself, stay independent without obsessing about your looks, look polished and sophisticated, stay happy, represent the US well, be a good mother and friend, stay connected to your husband, support important issues, be sure the press isn't always focused on just what you're wearing but your message, not be a fashionista, stay aware of the economic times and your audience/event you're attending, stay a strong role model...WHEW!
But you know what, if anyone can handle all of this it's our "Mighty Michelle", as the Brits call her. She's transitioning and evolving before us all and it's fun to watch.
....I've also noticed something here at home in the US. When Michelle is giving a speaking engagement or highlighting one of her issues, she wears dark pants and a cardigan or pantsuits (no fuss outfit) to perhaps not distract from the message. She's starting (I think) to wear her dresses and more feminine outfits when she is out supporting her husband. I don't know if that theory is right but we'll see.
Everyone needs a little assistance sometimes. I feel that a stylist for Michelle would be very appropriate. Michelle is beautiful, tall, thin, ivy league educated, passed the bar, worked as an attoney then professionally employed prior making six figures prior to the white house, mother of two, and a very supportive wife. Anyone this busy could use a little help. Who would have time to worry about outfits- she has just moved from that scence to the white house. My goodness...I've been told that I am very stylish, have wonderful taste and often assist others with there look. However, I too desire a second opinion at times for special occasions and from those I feel have wonderful taste too- it's fun to get a second opinion sometimes. There would be nothing wrong with obtaining a professional stylist for Michelle....cp
This was not a good choice of wardrobe pieces- in my honest, not expert opinion. This is a very busy look. With such a big bow - why a belt? And the belt is really almost under her breast line. I keep mentioning the same thing: Mrs. Obama is too short waisted and should not use belts. But if she does, and she will continue to do so... she needs to keep the other pieces VERY SIMPLE. I do not get this look at all.
Even though I don't love this outfit...totally not into bows...I would hate to see her get a stylist. She does a great job most of the time, and what's wrong with a small blooper once in a while. It makes her easier to identify with.
Brenda--right on! Totally agree, just a little help is all that's needed. Michelle shouldn't be remade or redone...just nicely styled with all of her own independent choices.
Well, I was going to comment on the placement of the belt and the volume of the blouse around the tummy which is a part that Mrs. O does not need to emphasize. But Tess said it all for me! Totally agreed--100%! Couldn't have said it better!
Her hair, make up and smile as always beautiful. The bow isn't my thing but she obviously feels good. I prefer the blouse in black as it looks better that the bow isn't contrasted against the background.
Think she should just continue being herself, making her own wardrobe choices as an individual - she isn't a fashion or clothes horse and I appreciate her a whole lot more for it.
A good stylist will be able to work with the clothing and the style that Mrs. Obama wants and not re-do Mrs. Obama, entirely.
It is definitely obvious that Mrs. Obama likes good clothing and pretty pieces - it is a matter of blending and using them appropriately, especially when going overseas. And we all need a stylist, here and there!
First an apology, I may be making some comments that have already been made, but I am so far behind on reading posts that I decided to just skip ahead (You left me back on Friday sometime) That said -- in reference to the De La Renta comments: Even though this is a fashion blog -- utilizing upcoming and young designers is part of the Obama's political philosphy -- helping people pull themselves up by their bootstraps. De La Renta needs no pulling up.
In regards to the outfits and what she should have worn when: I thought the choices, although sometimes not what I would have chosen, fit the occasion -- i.e. the cardigan over the sleeveless dress to meet the Queen -- one poster suggested she should have worn the flowered coat instead. Then she wouldn't have been dressy enough for the reception and dinner afterward. Mrs. O. does love her cardigans, but you cannot fault her in chilly England. And cardigans pack much more easily than jackets -- much less opportunity for wrinkles.
Finally, after all the Obama/Sarkozy anticipated competition -- I think there was collusion between the two staffs to make sure the amount of competition was reduced by having them wear similar outfits. They would never be twins but it certainly resulted in a standoff. Thanks for letting me put in my two cents even at this late date.