Today in a stunning ceremony at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, First Lady Michelle Obama donated her fabulous inaugural gown to the institution. The gown was worn to the ten inaugural balls held in Washington, D.C. on that bitterly cold night in January. The formal induction of the gown was an invitation only event that included students from the Huntington High School Fashion Design and Illustration Program in Long Island, New York. In 2009 the school challenged its design and illustration students to create an inaugural gown for Mrs. Obama after students were inspired by her style and spirit. “She’s one of the most fashionable First Ladies,” one young designer said. The students sent a book of illustrations to the First Lady.
Mrs Obama’s one shouldered, white silk chiffon gown’s designer, Jason Wu, was there and told the audience that he didn’t know his gown, embellished with organza flowers and Swarovski crystal centers, had been selected until Mrs. Obama showed up with it on. He was very proud and honored that his design had been selected. Wu, based in Manhattan, as we all know by now was a relatively unknown designer. Known for his emphasis on the feminine hourglass shape and ladylike style, Mrs. Obama has purchased four of his dresses and worn them to interviews with Barbara Walters and to visit Queen Elizabeth.
Indeed, inaugurations are celebratory events for presidents but any accomplishment can be worthy of an inauguration. Think about it. How would you celebrate you or your spouse’s highest achievement? What would you wear?
Nisa Muhammad, Washington DC Correspondent
Huntington High School Fashion Design and Illustration Program
