Is it a good fit? Weigh in on Michelle Obama's inauguration outfit

No more speculating. Michelle Obama wore a yellow dress and matching coat for her first appearance on inauguration day.

The outfit was by Cuban-born American designer Isabel Toledo, one of her favorite designers.  Speculation had been that she would steer clear of anything bling, given this country’s economic doldrums, but this ensemble had a bit of sparkle at the neckline.  Finishing details were green Jimmy Choo shoes and green  gloves from J. Crew.

Hamish Bowles, Vogue magazine’s European editor at large who curated the Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute exhibit on Jackie Kennedy in 2001, told the Associated Press that said he sees a resemblance in the inaugural styles between the two first ladies. “She’s off to an auspicious start,” Bowles said of Obama.

“Mrs. Obama’s choice today was appropriate, dignified and elegant but it also had a considerable element of fashion panache,” he added.

The fashion industry hopes Obama will lift the industry out of its sad state.  Not only do American women relate to Obama’s more contemporary fashion choices, they like  that she’s as likely to wear off-the-rack as designer. It will be interesting to see if that changes with a move into the White House.

Bowles said Obama has shown an ability to root out exciting and innovative styles in her backyard and there’s been no need for her to look at European designers.  “She’s finding great American talent.”

Obama continues to mix up her looks, often choosing lesser-known designers. The fashion industry loves her bold choices.