Behind the Scenes: State Dinner Preview

While the State Dinner is being held in the East Room of the White House this evening, I'm delighted to share a few photos from the State Dinner Preview held this afternoon (please excuse the amateur photography!). The theme of the evening is "A Fall Harvest Dinner," as produce grown in the White House Kitchen garden is being used in the menu constructed by Executive Chef Cris Comerford and Executive Pastry Chef William Yosses.

The fall harvest concept appears to have directed the decor as well, which features an autumnal palette of oranges, reds, and greens. Centerpieces include apples mixed with chrysanthemums -- the latter being a sign of a productive and fruitful life in Korean culture.

Dinner

First Course: Butternut Squash Bisque, Honey Poached Cranberries, Virginia Cured Ham, Pumpkin Seed Praline, Creme Fraiche

Second Course: Early Fall Harvest Salad on Daikon Sheets, Masago Rice Pearl Crispies, Rice Wine Vinaigrette

Main Course: Texas Wagyu Beef, Orange-Ginger Fondue, Sauteed Kale, Roasted Kabocha Squash

Dessert: Chocolate Malt Devils Food Layers with Pear and Almond Brittle.

An American wine will be paired with each course.

Entertainment

The White House will host entertainment in the State Dining Room following the dinner in the East Room, featuring performances by the Ahn Trio and selections by Janelle Monae.

A True Jewel

Photo by Pablo Martinez Monsivais / Getty Images

Mrs. O looks beautiful this evening in a chiffon jersey one shoulder gown in a deep amethyst hue. Pieced and gathered chiffon jersey creates a woven effect through the bodice, while draping adds interest and movement through the skirt. Mrs. O puts an evening spin on her signature belt, adding a turquoise beaded piece at the waist. Statement gold earrings, a cuff bracelet and ring complete the look. At the toe, we see just a peek of a deep plum-colored sandal.

Mrs. Kim Yoon-ok looks lovely in a frothy pink traditional hanbok, while the gentlemen Presidents look dapper in their classic tuxedos. HOORAY for a state dinner!

Update #1: Mrs. O wears a gown by Korea-born Doo-Ri Chung, designer of the New York-based label doo.ri. 

Update #2: The Washington Post has an interview with Doo-Ri Chung. 

“We were contacted after our spring show,” Chung recalled. The first lady’s office told her that “they really loved the strapless purple gown.” But all parties both knew there were some modifications that needed to happen. “What we showed was a lot more risqué than what the First Lady could wear. Obviously a thigh-high slit would not work.”

A more modest slit remained, leading up to a high-waisted belt. Chung noted that she accommodated a usual Michelle Obama accessory, while the First Lady respected the fabric choice that the designer favors. “Jersey, of course. Signature to the house!” she said with a laugh. “I appreciate the dress she asked for doesn’t veer off what I usually do."

For those curious about the original dress, I believe it was likely this dress from doo.ri Spring 2012 that was modified into a custom gown for the First Lady. 

"Doo-Ri Chung talks about her state dinner dress" [Washington Post]

"NYC designer 'thrilled' Michelle Obama wore her dress to state dinner" [New York Post]

"Michelle Obama stuns in violet gown" [NBC Nightly News]

Delightful Blue Brocade

The President and First Lady hosted a state arrival ceremony to honor the President and First Lady of South Korea at the White House this morning. Braving rain showers, Mrs. O looked splendid in a cropped blue metallic brocade jacket and matching pencil skirt. A statement brooch (with major sparkle factor!) completed the look.

Late morning, the two first ladies headed to Annandale, VA for a ceremony at Annandale High School, which has a robust Korean community in its student body. Each woman gave remarks, expressing their friendship, and encouraging students to embrace hard work. On a style note, it appears that First Lady Kim Yoon-ok has a penchant for brooches as well!

Update: The First Lady wears a design by Chris Benz!

Photos by Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images, Haraz N. Ghanbari / AP Images, Mandel Ngan / Getty Images

World Record O

Photos by Mark Wilson / Getty Images

The First Lady was joined by 400 schoolchildren on the South Lawn of the White House today to kick off an attempt to break the world record for the most people doing jumping jacks in a 24-hour period. This is the latest installment in the First Lady's "Let's Move" initiative. Looks like Mrs. O is having fun!

Weekend Chic

Photo by Manuel Balce Ceneta / AP Images

The Obamas enjoyed a weekend away at Camp David. Arriving back in Washington, Mrs. O wore a Sophie Theallet dress, last seen on July 4th, and paired here with a cropped black cardigan.