The race is officially on!
Michael Kors (above), Diane von Furstenberg, Tracy Reese, Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera and several other top designers submitted sketches to Women's Wear Daily of their ideas for an inauguration gown for Michelle Obama. Current Obama favorites like Maria Pinto and Thakoon declined WWD's request (Thakoon would only say to New York magazine when asked about his chances "Um … we'll see what happens."). I still think Maria Pinto has the best shot to make it into the history books on this one, but I can certainly see Ms. Obama working with many of these designers over the next four years.
Several designers also submitted sketches for the Obama's daughters Malia and Sasha. One thing to keep in mind - she may very well end up in 2 or 3 gowns before the night is over. MTV is just one company that is throwing its first inaugural ball since the Clintons were in the White House, so the Obamas are likely to have a full plate on the big night.
Rachel Roy - Are we talking a soft canary yellow here? I can't tell what the exact color is but I like the idea of it - especially with the bold earrings.
Peter Som - Elegant simplicity that recalls Mrs. Kennedy... but my guess is that Mrs. Obama wants to make her own mark on January 20, 2009.
Diane von Furstenberg - Lovely although I confess my first thought was 'wedding gown.' We are, however, talking Diane von Furstenberg here though...
Carolina Herrera - I think this would be a great color on Michelle Obama - and do I see gloves? Do we want to see her in gloves?
Tracy Reese - Loving the color, but I am hoping Mrs. O goes for something a little sleeker.
Kai Milla - This designer happens to be Stevie Wonder's wife. Since it's an excellent bet that her husband will sing at the festivities, I wonder if she'll end up saving this gown for herself if it is not selected.
Tuleh - I would love to wear this myself! However, I can absolutely picture Michelle Obama floating through ball after ball in this one.
Karl Lagerfeld (for Chanel)- I can definitely see her in the gown and the inauguration ceremony suit even though I am still seeing visions of Jackie O with the suit.
For Malia and Sasha
Isaac Mizrahi - I love Isaac and I am loving the colors and the fabrics that he chose for the Obama ladies.
Reem Acra - A little staid considering how lively and fun the Obama girls seem to be. And I really would love to see them in cheerful, brighter colors on Inauguration Day.
Oscar de la Renta - Well, I love Oscar de la Renta (and I'm not just saying that because he is a legend) but I don't love these looks. At least not for Inauguration Day.
Lucy Sykes - Maybe it's the sketch, but this feels like Easter Sunday 1954 to me. Not that it is a terrible thing per se but it sort of reminds me of pictures of my mom when she was a little girl. And again, I want to see color on the big day!
Best & Co. - Again, a little Kennedy-esque but you never know. And it will be cold...
Kico Kids - Cute and cheerful.
I don't know how she is going to choose! I love the Michael Kors, Oscar trio, and the Kai Milla. Wouldn't it be nice to have designers knocking down your door - begging to design a dress for you. Awesome!
Posted by: Jean Voute Pratt | 07/12/2008 at 20:02