Affordable Ways to Get Michelle Obama's Style

Fashion Drama

Michelle Obama knows how to add drama to every outfit. While at the Grand Hotel in Oslo, Norway for Barack Obama's acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize, the first lady radiated in this Azzedine Alaia jacket, which was paired with a matching dress.

Love the drama? Although this Pleated Career Jacket in Silver (above; $22.80 at Forever21.com) doesn't nearly compare to the one Mrs. O wore, it's as close as we found for the fraction of the cost.

Daring Color

We haven't seen many first ladies rock bright colors, but Michelle Obama doesn't shy away from the bold. During a news conference and state dinner at the White House, Mrs. O showed off this tangerine-hued brocade dress and coat by Isaac Mizrahi.

Love the color? This Shelbie Hooded Coat (above; $94.50 at Delias.com) might do the trick.

Hooped Wrists

We love that the first lady can double-dutch and hula-hoop like the rest of us. Even better, Michelle Obama plays kid games with such grace and style.

Like Mrs. O's wrist action? Try the Betsey Johnson Stretch Bangle Set (above; $55 at Nordstrom.com). Tack even more bracelets on for a more dramatic effect like Michelle's. And FYI, her adorable top is a Jason Wu creation.

Feathered Dress

Michelle Obama attended the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Phoenix Awards Dinner in Washington, D.C. wearing this fashion-forward Jason Wu feathered dress with sheer detailing.

Like the feather detailing? This Black Taffeta Feather Hem Strapless Dress by BCBG Max Azria (above) follows suit. Although it's still a bit of a splurge at $339, the dress is marked down from its original price of $565 at BlueFly.com, and is likely less expensive than the Jason Wu creation on the first lady.

Bold Prints

Michelle Obama does not shy away from bold prints—and thank goodness! She looked fabulous in this printed black and white skirt from Diane von Furstenberg's fall 2009 collection, ruffled blouse and belted cardigan during a speech she made at the White House in support of health care legislation.

Can't splurge on the DVF number? This Linen Ikat Contrast Skirt (above; $14.80 at Forever21.com) is cute, too, and at a fraction of the cost.

Studded Belt

While at the White House for an event promoting Chicago's bid for the 2016 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, the first lady wore a trendy studded belt over a cardigan—one of the season's hottest trends.

To achieve the look, consider the Studded Stretch Belt (above; $29 at Spiegel.com). Just wear it over any long cardigan in your wardobe and voila.

Dress with a Bow

It came as no surprise to us when Mrs. O sported this cute blue number at the Evening Parade at the Washington Marine Barracks. After all, she loves bow accents!

We found a similar Cotton Bow Dress (above; $78 at JCrew.com). Hurry and grab one before they're sold out! The trend is hot hot hot!

High-Waisted in Canary

Although summer is officially over, yellow will be a hot color for fall. Sport a high-waisted canary skirt like Michelle Obama did with a tucked-in top and a cardigan.

Try this High-Waist Bow Skirt (above; $28.90 at Alloy.com) on for starters.

Wrap It Up with a Bow

While vacationing at Martha's Vineyard with the fam, Michelle Obama wore a cinched Sophie Theallet dress and metallic ballet flats.

We just love the bow accent! Get the similar Sateen Bow Belt (above; $14 at Spiegel.com) to cinch your dresses' waists.

Summer Seersucker

When the Obamas returned home after their weekend in Montana, Wyoming, Colorado and Arizona (what a trip!), Mrs. O was spotted sporting seersucker, a fabric we love for summer and spring.

Want a similar number? Try the Signature Stretch Seersucker Collection Sheath Dress ($39 at Spiegel.com). It's likely just as flattering and recession-friendly!

The Merona Collection from Target

Yes, the first lady shops at Target. She wore this fabulous number from the store's Merona Collection with a Sacai belt when she landed in Arizona.

The actual dress Mrs. O wore is no longer available at the retailer, but this Sleeveless Tie-Neck Dress ($29.99 at Target.com) from the collection has a very similar look and feel.

Pointy, Black Patent Flats

It's the wardrobe staple that keeps on giving: the black patent pump. The first lady wore the practical pair during a reception she hosted with the prez at the White House honoring the newly sworn in Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor.

Like the pair? These Gabriella Rocha Bess Flats ($59 at Zappos.com) look just like hers!

The Invisible Belt

Michelle Obama set a new trend in Moscow by sporting a transparent belt by Sonia Rykiel with her Narciso Rodriguez dress and Michael Kors collarless coat.

We found a similar accessory: The Transparent Vinyl Belt (above, $6.99 at Spiegel.com). And the best part is, you can rock this waist-cincher with almost anything because it matches everything!

Belt Your Cropped Jackets

Mrs. O wore this stone-colored, belle-sleeved jacket with a wide Givenchy belt at the Unity Health Care's Upper Cardozo Center in Washinton.

Love the look, but don't want to splurge on the label? Try the Belted Tweed Jacket (above, $24.99 at Newport-News.com). Save even more by belting any light jacket you have in your wardrobe.

The Black and White Dress

Move aside, LBDs. There's a new dress staple in town. Michelle Obama is a fan of the black and white block dress and so are we.

Want a similar number? We like the Circle Skirt Tank Dress (above, $19.50 at WetSeal.com). Wear it to your next cocktail party to channel some first lady charm.

Belted White Sheaths

It's almost as if first ladies Michelle Obama and Carla Bruni Sarkozy called each other before the international ceremony commemorating the 65th anniversary of D-Day, and planned their outfits.

We love their cinched white dresses! Michelle belted her Michael Kors dress with Givenchy and sported a Narciso Rodriguez coat over it, while Carla chose a Dior satin sheath. Like the look but can't splurge on designer wear? Try cinching this Splendid Linen Pinch-Pleat Dress(above, $24.99 at JJill.com).

Flirt with Tiers

The president and first lady recently had a date night in New York City for the Broadway show, "Joe Turner's Come and Gone." Michelle Obama looked stunning in a square-neck black dress with bands of ruffles down its skirt. She paired the dress with a bright blue clutch and Jimmy Choo heels.

Like the tiered look? The Sleeveless Tiered Dress (above, $24.80 at Forever21.com) is very similar at a very recession-friendly price.

Layer with Floral Blouses and Cardigans

The weather has been fickle lately, so layering is a great idea. Take the lead from Mrs. O by layering a floral blouse with a complimentary cardigan.

We're not sure what brand Michelle is wearing here (J.Crew perhaps?), but you can try this ECI Petites Floral Blouse (above, $35.40 at Dillards.com).

Cut Ribbons in Ribbons

When Michelle Obama wore this pre-fall 2009 Isaac Mizrahi dress and coat in purple silk wool, our jaws dropped. We were in love. Appropriately, the first lady wore the bowed ensemble to the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Metropolitan Museum of Art American Wing.

It was hard to find something super-similar, but this Trina Turk Patricia Satin Bow Jacket (above $136 at RevolveClothing.com) captures the trend nicely. Not quite what you were looking for? Maybe Isaac Mizrahi will release a version of it at Target one day.

Go Above and Beyond with Bangles

The first lady exercised her right to wear bangles at the American Ballet Opening Night Spring Gala. Her metallic black sleeveless dress with corseted top by Azzedine Alaia went perfectly with the multiple rings.

Like the trend? Try these mark Lauren Conrad's Bangle Collection (above, $9.99 at Avon.com). They come in gold, too.

Don't Forget About Simple Black Patent Pumps

During her commencement speech at the University of California, Michelle Obama wore a simple Michael Kors tank dress in bonded jersey underneath her commencement gown. She added a black flower pin on her left shoulder for a little Michelle touch, and worked the event comfortably in a pair of not-so-high-heeled black patent pumps.

We found a very-similar Bandolino Woen's Berry Pump (above, $68.95 at Endless.com).

Welcome Bows on Blouses

Bows on blouses and dresses are not foreign to the first lady. When the president spoke in Prague on April 5, Mrs. O delighted the crowd with the Moschino Tie-Front Silk Blouse, which retails for $608 at Farfetch.com.

Love the look, but don't want to break the bank? We found a similar DKNYC Button-Up Tunic with Bowtie and Cami (above, $105 at Zappos.com). It will look great with any cardigan and matching belt in your wardrobe.

Bring Back the Bolero

Boleros came in and out about a year ago. Some of us were actually thankful we'd never see them again.

Well, we changed our minds the moment we saw Michelle Obama wearing one at the 2009 NATO Summit in Germany.

So, we scoured for a similar one to wear with our party dresses, and found the Bolero Bolo (above, $69 at MangoShop.com). Score!

Rock Fashion Sneakers

The first lady rocked a casual ensemble made up of J.Crew's Featherweight Cashmere Argyle Cardigan, cropped gray pants and $630 Lanvin Leather Sneakers at the Capital Area Food Bank.

Love the look, but don't want to spend three digits on a pair of tennis shoes? How about fashion sneakers in the two-digit range instead? Consider the Puma Crete Pique Sneakers (above, $54.95 at Zappos.com).

Salute Colorblocks and Stripes

Colorblocks and stripes are still hot, and Michelle Obama knows it. At the Sojourner Truth's Memorial Bust Is Unveiled In The US Capitol event, she wore a dress showcasing those trends by Sophie Theallet, a French designer living in the U.S.

We found the Striped Shirt Dress at eLuxury.com for $1,925—eek! Not interested in making a hefty, four-digit splurge? The Colorblock Skirt and Three-Pack V-Neck Tee (above, $29 for the skirt; $24 for the shirt at Newport-News.com) will do the trick.

Dress it Up with Florals

The first lady has been known to accessorize with pearls and flowers. And occasionally, she'll even wear them together.

She wore a stunning necklace with her magenta Michael Kors dress to the White House correspondents' dinner. The fresh-water-pearl-and-Swarovski-crystal necklace is from the three-season-old, UK-based jewelry line, St. Erasmus.

Need a floral statement piece? We love the super-affordable Flower Necklace Set with Enamel and Rhinestones (above, $12.99 at GirlProps.com).

Don't Be Afraid of Wide-Leg Capris

Michelle Obama dazzled onlookers with a Basso & Brooke off-the-shoulder top, white pants and silver heels at the White House's poetry jam that President Obama hosted.

You might be hesitant to wear wide-leg capris, like Mrs. O—some say they make you look wider and shorter—but worn the right way (with heels and a pretty, print top), you won't disappoint.

Try the Legacy Wide-Leg Crop Pants (above, $88 at WhiteHouseBlackMarket.com).

Go Sleek and Chic

It's no secret—the first lady likes Michael Kors. And, who can blame her? His pieces are timeless, flattering and super-chic.

We fell in love with his creation that Mrs. O showcased at Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People Gala.

Want a similar dress? How about the OC by Oleg Cassini Stretch Satin Long Evening Gown (above, $64.97 at SmartBargains.com)? Don't forget to layer some long beads.

Brooch the Coat

Adorn your outerwear with a splash of color like the first lady. Try this City Style Purple Flower Pin (right, $14.95 at New York & Company). It’ll go great with black, gray and neutral shades.

Land in Yellow

Belt this Sateen Sheath Dress (right, $39 at Newport-News.com) to get Michelle Obama’s signature look shown here when she and President Barack Obama landed in London.

Appreciate Argyle

Usually worn with slacks, Michelle Obama cleverly worked an argyle cardigan by Japanese designer Junya Watanabe with a blue dress by Jason Wu, the designer behind her inaugural gown, at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden.

Steal this First Lady look by pairing the Merona Argyle Cardigan Crewneck Sweater (above, on sale at Target for $6.24) with any knee-length dress in your closet—a great look for spring.

Embrace Layers

Recreate the Isabel Toledo silk crepe dress that Michelle Obama wore to have tea with the Queen with this Smocked Waist Poplin Skirt (right, $22.50 at Wet Seal). Just tuck in a white, scoopneck sleeveless top and sport a black cardigan—fashion staples that you should already have in your wardrobe—and voila.

Mismatch Beads

Mixing and matching jewelry can be tricky—there are no rules; just judge with your eyes.

Need the work done for you? The Merona Metal Stretch Charm Bracelet (above, $12.99 at Target) combines two bracelet-trends for the price of one.

Dazzle at Downing Street

Cringing at bedazzled sweaters is a thing of the past. Michelle Obama showcased the trend impeccably with J.Crew's Crystal Constellation Cardigan ($298) embellished with beads and rhinestones, along with J.Crew's Dazzling-Dots Pencil Skirt ($158).

Can't quite splurge? Consider DIY-ing the Merona 3/4 Sleeve Jersey Cardigan (above, $19.99 at Target) with crystal beads from Michaels (under $20).

Sport Pearls

Like Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Michelle Obama fancies pearls. They're timeless, elegant and, well, they match almost everything.

If you want the same strand that Michelle wears, you can get your own 16-Millimeter Pearl Choker at Carolee.com for $50 (also shown above). Wear them with dresses, sweaters and blouses. Just stay away from wearing them with turtlenecks, high-collared shirts and T-shirts.

Wrap Yourself in Purple

We've noticed that solid berries, purple florals and plum patterns often grace Michelle Obama's wardrobe. Next to red, it appears to be one of her other favorite fashion hues. And, she looks fantastic in it.

When Joe Biden's vice presidential candidacy was announced, she was sporting this very feminine Moschino shirt dress, which cinches right at the waist with a matching wrap belt. As this season's "It" color, we advise everyone (of all skin tones, shapes and sizes) to go purple.

Try the Interlock Wrap Dress (above, $44 at AmericanApparel.com) on for size.

Cinch Your Waist

Ditch those balloon-y numbers and babydolls—we're so over tent-like ensembles. From pencil skirts to dresses, belting right above the hips is a must this year. Michelle Obama typically uses a medium-thick or super-thick black belt to cinch her waist into create a flattering silhouette and so should you.

To steal the look, use the Fina Firenze Woven Ribbon Sash Belt (above, $48 at Nordstrom.com).

Save your thin belts for pants (with your dress shirts tucked in, of course) and to wear over open cardigans and sweaters.

Have Flower Power

We first saw this trio of flowers on Michelle Obama's appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. She used them to fasten her cardigan, not to mention dress up her onscreen ensemble.

Then, when the cornflower-blue, rose-pink mix and ombre-effect lilac made a second appearance on a string of pearls at the third presidential debate at Hofstra University in New York (left), we were floored!

On a budget? Try the Long Pearl Necklace with Flowers (above, $48 at BetseyJohnson.com).

Give Peace a Chance

Michelle Obama wore a hope and peace pairing regularly during the home stretch of the campaign trail. Perhaps something can be said about the power of positive thinking, Mrs. O?

The peace sign (a $320 white gold and diamond necklace) can be found at LenaWald.com, a Los Angeles-based jewelry designer. (Gwyneth Paltrow and Katie Holmes are fans, too!)

However, if you don't have the celeb budget for one, try the Peace Sign Necklace (above, $5.99 at CharlotteRusse.com).

Experiment with Bold Colors

Michelle is not afraid to experiment with vibrant shades and favors monochromatic color schemes. From knee-length dresses to tops-and-pants combos, she adds pizzazz to her wardrobe by playing with complimentary shades.

Consider combinations like cobalt blue and gold, purple and yellow, and green and pink to copy Michelle’s best looks. Just don’t go overboard—exercise mixing bright hues only when your ensemble is simple, free of multiple textures and patterns, and sophisticated.

For starters, try the Tall Cotton Crewneck Cardigan (above, $44.99 at BananaRepublic.com).

Happy Shopping Everyone!
XOXO

What's In & Out For 2010

In: Pretty and Gritty

Joanne Stoner, CEO of eDressMe.com, says juxtaposition is in this year. "[Wear] a beautiful combination of feminine and edgy," she suggests. That means, it's time to rock your motorcycle jacket with frilly, floral dresses. You can even try studded accessories with ruffles.

Still In: Ethical Fashion

This year, shoppers will reject "flashy" fashions and opt for feel-good luxury, like ethical clothing. "More affordable options will also proliferate—Walmart, H&M and American Apparel already offer organic cotton lines," says Ann Mack, head of trendspotting at JWTIntelligence, a marketing communications brand based in New York. We'll see more and more reasonably-priced selections in 2010.

Out: Newsboy Caps

Put away those newsboy caps, ladies. Jacqui Stafford, executive style director of Shapetrends for 2010."

Skip real fur and opt for faux trim, Stafford adds. "Animal-cruelty free is a trend, too." magazine, says trapper hats are in. "These hats fit snug and look cute on just about anyone," she points out. "Not only do they keep you warm when the [temperature] dips, they are one of the hottest
trends for 2010."

Skip real fur and opt for faux trim, Stafford adds. "Animal-cruelty free is a trend, too."

In: Changes

The year will be dominated by unexpected texture changes, says Louis Licari, hair guru and iVillage blogger. "People with straight hair will wear [it] curly, and straight-haired girls will wear curls," says the celebrity hairstylist. "Hair pieces will be cheap, cheerful and disposable."

Licari reminds that we look best when we work with our natural texture and not fight it though. "Barbie is no longer every little girl's fantasy," he says. "Women with texture have finally taken center stage."

Out: Over-Bronzing

Jersey Shore's Snooki must've not gotten the memo. "One trend to avoid is creating that overly bronzed skin," says Cristina Bartolucci, founder and creative director of DuWop Cosmetics. "In 2010, we’ll see a departure from the tanning creams and fake bronzers that have been so popular in recent years." (Could this be the Twilight effect?)

Instead, we'll see more soft, subtle, shimmering skin— skin with an ethereal glow will outshine the overly-tan look.

Still In: Money Smarts

"Top stylists can be expensive. Splurge when you can, but make follow-up appointments with a junior stylist trained by your pricier pro," suggest Patrick Melville, celebrity stylist and co-owner of the Patrick Melville Salon in New York City.

And if you want to revive your hair's texture and color, Melville is behind at-home deep treatments and color glazes. "They are easy and inexpensive ways to keep your hair looking fresh. [Doing so] will extend the life of your color and give [your] hair that 'I just left the salon' shine."

Out: Pixie Haircuts

Michael Shaun Corby, global creative director of Alterna Professional Haircare, "While shorter hair will be popular, he pixie [hairstyle] is on its way out, and won't be as trendy 2010."

Back In: The Girl Next Door

"There will be a return of the sexy girl next door, which means longer hair (shoulder-length and longer)," says Ted Gibson, celebrity hairstylist and resident hair guru on TLC's What Not to Wear. "As for color, cuts and styling, we'll see golden dimensional color with single-process color. In addition, soft waves are something that never goes out of style."

Gibson adds, textured and bigger ponytails is a new look that will turn heads in 2010, as well.

In: Being Upbeat and Breezy

"For 2010, with a mood that's decidedly lighter, we're ready to embrace 'upbeat and breezy,'" says Amy Goodman, fashion trend director of Timex. "Shorts [will be] the new skirt. Cascading, draping and neutral hues [will also] set the stage for clothes that playful and romantic."

Designers will reveal that women are ready for fun, effortless clothes they can move in, Goodman explains. So it may be time to store those pencil skirts and skinny jeans!

Out: Mineral Makeup

Say it isn't so! We've all fallen in love with mineral makeup at one point or another, but according to Anne Houseman, editor-in-chief of BeautyXpose.com, it's out. "You couldn't turn a corner without seeing mineral makeup in 2009. In 2010, more natural-looking liquid foundations and airbrushed looks will make a big splash," she explains.

So what's in? "We're going to see a lot of playful makeup palettes—especially in eye shadows," says Houseman. "It's all about amping up the color for a futuristic feel."

In: Head-to-Toe in White

This can be refreshing, says Marla Tomazin, an image consultant based in New York City. "It may not be practical [for some women], but it's worth owning a fabulous white jacket, top and pants that you can mix and match with other colors in your wardrobe, as well as making the pure white statement," Tomazin points out. "Change [things] up with one or two colors you love in [the form of] a scarf. Crystal jewelry with [an] all-white [outfit] keeps it cool and clean."

Happy Shopping :)
XOXO