In 2009, the fashion world waited with bated breath to see what the first lady to-be would wear to her husband's historic inauguration, and Michelle Obama did not disappoint. From receptions to black tie dinners, MObama continues to make superb sartorial choices that make fashion editors and bloggers swoon. In honor of Obama's second inaugural ball, let's take a look back at the first lady of fashion’s best formal-wear looks.
Off-the-Shoulder Gown + Stunning Accessories
Welcoming Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip to a reciprocal dinner in London, the first lady was the epitome of elegance in a sleek Ralph Lauren gown. To top it off, she donned a stunning statement necklace and matching bracelet. The off-the-shoulder silhouette has become one of her signature looks, and this number has us wanting four more years of gorgeous gowns.
One-Shoulder Gown + Toned Arms
Even if you're not the most avid MObama fan, you have to admit that she knows how to dress to show off her assets. For a state dinner with South Korean President Lee Myung-bak and his wife Kim Yoon-ok, the first lady chose this purple, one-shoulder jersey gown with a jeweled belt. The dress by Korean-American designer Doo-Ri Chung made us envious of Mrs. Obama's toned arms.
Couture + A Bit of Culture
Not many ladies can pull off a couture gown, but MObama looked stunning in this red and black gown by Sarah Burton of the British design house Alexander McQueen. The first lady donned this statement-making number to a state dinner with Chinese President Hu Jintao. The gown's hue was widely considered a nod to China, where red historically symbolizes joy and good fortune.
Glittering Gown + Layers of Pearls
The first lady quite literally sparkled in the Peter Soronen gown she wore to the National Governors Association black tie dinner. She looked especially glamorous pairing the sequined gown with a pearl and crystal necklace by Tom Binns. Not to be outshined by the glittering ensemble, the first lady showed off her glowing skin and toned figure in this form-fitting number.
At the 2010 White House Correspondents' Dinner, the first lady looked radiant in a red, jersey draped gown by Prabal Gurung. A straight, sleek bob and bold jewelry accented her look.
Contemporary Gown + Classic Accessories
We loved the first lady's updated take on classic black tie attire at a formal state dinner at Buckingham Palace. The white Tom Ford gown with a contemporary crisscross neckline paired with long gloves made for a sophisticated ensemble fit for meeting the Queen.
First lady Michelle Obama chose to wear Halston, one of the first American fashion house's to earn worldwide recognition, for the annual White House Correspondents' Dinner on April 30, 2011, in Washington. The chocolate-colored dress featured an empire waist and a low neckline. It was accented with a layered necklace piece and handful of bangles.
For the state dinner at the White House in honor of German Chancellor Angela Merkel on June 7, 2011, first lady Michelle Obama stepped out in an all-over embellished gown by Naeem Khan. The ivory, v-neck column dress featured silver beads, white sequins and metallic thread in a geometric pattern. Tousled hair and a stack of chunky bangles by Alexis Bittar completed her look.
President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama enter the East Room with Israeli President Shimon Peres for a dinner where he would be presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom June 13, 2012, at the White House in Washington.
And the First Lady Wore...Jason Wu (Again!)
Finally, we know the first lady's gown of choice for her second inaugural ball -- another gorgeous confection by Jason Wu. With her toned upper body and glossy new locks, the shoulder-baring, cherry-red velvet and chiffon design looked stunning on the first lady. How do you think this year's gown compares to the 2009 Jason Wu number?
Jason Wu + New Beginnings
Michelle Obama solidified her role as the first lady of style at her husband's 2009 Inaugural Ball by donning an ivory chiffon gown covered in organza flowers by designer Jason Wu. It was a look that was representative of new beginnings, evoking the message of change that President Obama promised during his campaign. Winning the inaugural-gown lottery changed the course of Jason Wu's career, catapulting his name into the blogosphere and earning him a spot in the Smithsonian Museum of American History.
Bold Blue Gown + Silver Accessories
MObama wore this one-shoulder, cobalt blue gown by New York designer Peter Soronen to a state dinner for Mexican President Felipe Calderon and his wife Margarita Zavala. Her silver earrings, belt and shoes perfectly complement her sparkling gown. We love that Mrs. Obama matched her eye shadow to the hue of her gown and played up the bold color choice.
Metallic Frock + Olympic Spirit
The first lady was a solid-gold smash in this metallic Rodarte frock at the 2009 International Olympic Committee reception in Copenhagen. Complete with gold accessories, the ensemble evoked the spirit of the Olympics and, in retrospect, seemed to foreshadow the USA's stellar performance at the 2012 Summer Games.
Beaded Gown + First Impressions
The first lady set the standard for impeccable evening wear when she wore this beaded nude number designed by Indian-born American designer Naeem Khan to the first state dinner in the Obama White House. She completed the look with gold bangles, bold earrings and a wrap.