Purple and Polka Dots (by Lanvin!)
Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at 4:34 PM 
Photo by Yuri Gripas / Reuters
We are loving First Lady Mrs. O's Spring wardrobe!
To visit third grade students at Ferebee-Hope Community School in Washington, DC, Mrs. O wore a purple polka dot sleeveless dress.
Update: A gold star for Jahmal, who has correctly identified Mrs. O's polka dot dress as Lanvin! The dress comes from Lanvin's Resort 2009 collection, seen in a full-length navy version here. Jahmal's discovery, here, also includes great detail shots. The silk dress features a draped bodice and a distinctive adornment at the shoulder, made of plastic discs accented with tubes and beads.
Thanks to Political Punch (one of our "go-to"s for Mrs. O coverage), we also have an update on the event:
The First Lady visited a group of third graders at the Ferebee-Hope Community School in Southeast Washington, who participate in the school's after-school program. According to her press office, her visit was intended to highlight the importance of after-school programs, particularly those for lower-income children.
Mrs. Obama read the book, "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day" by Judith Viorst. Afterwards she and the children talked about what makes a bad day (gum in one's hair, falling in mud on one's birthday) and what to do on such occasions (remember there's always tomorrow).
Update: An important detail we failed to include. Per the Huffington Post, the day also included a meeting with leaders from the dropout prevention organization "Communities In Schools", which provides individual tutoring for the third graders the First Lady met. Thanks to Janelle for pointing us to this Washington Post video:
Reader Comments (248)
Bev, where is your evidence? This is kinda getting ridiculous so I will ignore you from now on. Unless you have evidence to present.
She gets critized for wearing J.Crew, she gets critized for wearing high end, she can't win. This is what happens when your every outfit is chronicled. Good thing Laura Bush didn't have that problem, cause Bev would have a stroke. Moving On.
Does anyone know if she has events planned for today?
Bev, your entire comment is based on the idea that Mrs. O accepts clothing for free. She does not and cannot. Jason Wu was not paid for the Inauguration dress and neither was the jewelry designer, but because these items were being donated to the Smithsonian.
To be clear: There is an actual LAW regarding Mrs. Obama (and most members of the administration) accepting gifts over $20. They are not allowed to do so. Further Michelle commented on this when she was a guest on Jay Leno. She said that she and her husband go out of their way to make sure that anything they wear, they buy. Also, Jcrew has commented on getting compensated for outfits they have provided her.
So...I hope that clarifies things. But to add on, they are very conscious of not using government money for luxury items. Like I said above, they turned down the money that was given to them to redecorate their house. They CAN afford to redecorate their house and so they are paying for it, just like they can afford to wear whatever they want, and pay for that as well.
@Joane - ignore all of it. That's what I'm going to do from now on. When folks start talking about the way Mrs. O is sitting, the cost of clothes SHE BUYS, her body size, etc., I'm not even going to engage in the discussion. It's not worth it, and it's going to suck the positive life out of this blog soon enough.
For those of you who questioned the appropriateness and expressed concern over why The First Lady wore this dress to meet with third grader. FYI -- According to Huffington Post, "Mrs. Obama visited the school to meet with leaders from the dropout prevention organization Communities In Schools, which provides individual tutoring for the third graders she met." Sometimes it's best to reserve judgement until all the facts are in...
@Jenna--you always give fantastic, intelligent comments that are based on facts, but you're arguing with folks that cannot be reasoned with (although I appreciate your points to some that may just be misinformed). The righties actually pay some folks to come to popular blogs to shift the tone and spread lies. And after saying my peace, I will say what Joane has just said...I will try to ignore and move on. That's the only way for the Hannity-type folks to go away. They hate to be ignored. Trolls must be fed, and after this comment I personally will try to just skip over and move on. Ignorant folks and bullies hate to be ignored. It's tough, because some of their comments are so ridiculous, but my goal is to ignore and keep on moving.
I am SO staying out of the $$$$ discussion on the Lanvin dress. But I wonder if anyone knows (Mrs. T?) if this short version has the extremely cool exposed zipper that the original long version has in the picture. I liked the dress a lot before I saw that, but between the plastic disc, etc. shoulder detail and the zipper, I too die. Sigh . . . Definitely not my granny's polka dot frock.
@ Me.
Thank you for addressing that. I'm actually surprised Mrs.T didn't include that bit of information in the post about her visit. That was the most important part IMO.
Thanks Me---I read that too elsewhere. She met with a lot of leaders after being with the children, including board members that lasted awhile. It was a closed door meeting to the press.
I am a lurker of this site and love the discourse on fashion. I just want to say Jenna I concur with you.
But I just have to say some on the comments on here is just breathe taking. I suggest some folks do research before throwing commentaries out there on issues they know nothing of. One of the lessons the Obama's have learned from history reagan, clinton etc. is to make as little noise as possible which means pay for your own stuff. I did not hear this criticism when it came to laura bush $3000 clothes likewise hillary's oscar suits that she still wears till this day. I thought this was a fashion and style blog, the aim to critic the styles. Now I see some folks who are hell bent on anything negative on Mrs O.
Women complain that the treatment they receive but its clear we are the one's who are ready to tear each other down. I simply ask that you treat and respect Mrs. Michelle Obama, the first lady with the same courtesy you have treated other first ladies. She is who she is and that's what I want my daugthers to be, dress however way it suits you and love every inch of your body.
Janelle: They DO? Sheesh. Fancy accepting money to do something like that. I do wonder how some people sleep at night.
I must admit, I was about to lay into the Troll Dolls myself, but on reflection, I won't bother. We know what's going on here and the facts are out there for those who have a genuine interest.
Thanks to Janelle, Me, Jenna, IVA and Ari for keeping it real. And thanks for the tip on the official meeting that this childrens meeting came out of. Good to know.
Me, Dee - Can you please link to said articles? Everything I've read has focused on visiting with the children. I will update the post, but need a credible source (not that you two aren't, but I like to link to an article). Thanks!
@Janelle,IVA-I've come to that conclusion as well, ignore comments that are meant to disrupt the blog. AND I recommend that to other bloggers as well, just ignore and move on.
On a fun note, if anyone wants to check out the cutest interaction of the first lady and the president at a soccer game and the most va va voom outfit Michelle wore to go to dinner check out this clip.
www(dot)youtube(dot)com/watch?v=HzM6XCisBcI
Clarify the clip was from last July, but some may not have seen it. Enjoy!
Janelle, I agree with you about trolls, however, there is no way Bev is a troll since she is a regular poster. I think she was just misinformed on this one issue. Which is no biggie!
But how did this thread become about how much the first lady spends on clothes, or how the first lady SITS IN HER CHAIR(!!!) a debate I hadn't even bothered to comment on because it was too ridiculous....
I think this past week or so has been, fashion-wise, only second to the European trip in terms of sheer fun. Think about the VARIETY of looks Mrs.O has worn in recent days:
---A showstopping appearance in a corseted black dress
---A sexy floor-length pink gown with a bold and unique necklace
--The understated and sweet black skirt and bolero
--A funky and brave, shoulder-baring work of art blouse
--This lovely little polka dot number
WOW. Again, how fun. And how great that this blog is here to chronicle all of it. So let's sort of let it go about how much she spends and how she sits, etc. That stuff is such nonsense.
Bev,
You say, "The only public comment that I am aware of on the freebie issue is from Jason Wu who stated that payment was not offered on his inaugural gown." Yet you surround that sentence with statements about Mrs. O's not paying for her own clothing as if this were an established fact. If you can't provide the evidence, don't make the claim.
Nice!
Oops, I meant, nice clip Joane.
The most touching part of the day was when Michelle took one of the girls and fixed her hair before the photograph. Maybe she's wearing clothes that most of us can't afford, but that clearly does not define who she is and what she cares about.
Mrs. T, here is an article, from the Associated Press, that refers to her meeting with the group--the very last line.
google(DOT)com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5ifTbJBLNNSeTGJz3nT9X2Q7GpzugD985L27G1
I'm happy to oblige Mrs. T! Here ya go...
Over at Michelle O Style: "The class, mostly made of eight year olds, is part of the Community in Schools program and the students receive one-on-one tutoring for 45 minutes every Tuesday. Obama also met with the Community In Schools board to discuss how the program works to keep kids from dropping out." Here's the link to the blog:
http(dot)//michelleostyle(dot)blogspot(dot)com/2009/05/michelle-obama-in-lanvin-resort-as-she(dot)html
Here's the link to the Huffington Post article. The part about her meeting with school leaders is at the very bottom of the article.
http(dot)//www(dot)huffingtonpost(dot)com/huff-wires/20090513/us-michelle-obama-school/
How is the First Lady any different from the rest of us in terns of the basic right to spend your money as you personally see fit? If she can afford it and isn't living beyond her means, it's her business how much she wants to pay for a pair of sneakers or a dress. How kindly would any of us take to someone questioning the cost of the things we buy? I spend my money on books, gourmet food/meals, theater tickets, etc - some of these things other people might find frivolous, but unless they are paying for it, they shouldn't have sh*t to say about it!
I think the only reason why some people are all up in arms over the cost of this or the cost of that is due to the fact that the cost of Mrs. O's clothing is widely reported. I honestly believe that no one would be commenting on the price of her clothing if this wasn't the case, as none of her daywear items have been ostentacious. I think she's been dressing in a manner that clearly shows that she's sensitive to the times.
We're moving on people, don't miss the train! lol
Here's another cute clip of them playing cards last July.
www(dot)youtube(dot)com/watch?v=6vd0hCriAnc&feature=related
Thanks everyone. The post has been updated to mention the meeting.
I've been following the thread above and I do believe Mrs. O's body size is relevant to this blog, as it pertains to the fit of the clothes she wears. This is after all about fashion,which includes, cut and fit. As far as wearing te dress to meet 3rd graders and school leaders, although I have no problem with it, it just has to do with functionality. I believe some posters were commenting to the fact that maybe that outfit did not exactly work for both meetings. It's not so much a criticism as an observation.
I'm looking forward to her commencement address at UC Merced this Saturday, hope they carry it live on cable news. She can be just as inspiring as her husband.
Just a quick note to say as the poster Bevi, with an "i" on the end - you will not ever see me question or even discuss Mrs. O's wardrobe choices in terms of $$$.
I don't consider it a point of discussion that I would ever care about or pursue :-)
following this site as I have been since "victory night", I am surprised at how much our First Lady actaully does.
She is everywhere !
I wonder if other First Ladies were this busy and we just didn't know it because they are not considered fashionable.
Even though this site serves as my lunch time delight, I am grateful that we have a First Lady that is so dedicated to her position.
The dots look hot and the picture seems to capture her essence of the perfect lady. Full attention to her audience, engaging smile, nice hair, soft makeup and legs comfortably together (uncrossed).
Nice photo Mrs. O, thanks again Mrs. T
Mrs. T,
Jenna and Me beat me to it! LOL. I visit so many sites in one day I couldn't remember where I first saw the mention of Mrs. O meeting with the leaders. Folks on this site are on the ball!
@ Janelle - Thank you for this:
"The righties actually pay some folks to come to popular blogs to shift the tone and spread lies. And after saying my peace, I will say what Joane has just said…I will try to ignore and move on. That’s the only way for the Hannity-type folks to go away. They hate to be ignored. Trolls must be fed, and after this comment I personally will try to just skip over and move on. Ignorant folks and bullies hate to be ignored. It’s tough, because some of their comments are so ridiculous, but my goal is to ignore and keep on moving."
I was actually about to take a certain person to task for her repeated assertions that Lady Michelle does not pay for her own clothes. How could anyone be so stupid as to repeatedly make this claim? I suspect your explanation is correct, and that starving the person of attention is the answer.
Thank you.
See this is why I couldn't be First Lady, I'm far to much of a smart A- double-S, I know myself and I know if some people where telling me what I should or shouldn't wear and how much I should or shouldn't spend on my clothes I would look at them crazy and ask if they were paying for my clothes and if they were not would they kindly Shut the H-E- double-hockey sticks up.
Do you really believe Mrs. Bush didn't have an expensive wardrobe? The only difference is there was not an intense focus on any and every piece of clothing she wore.
And another thing Mrs. O wearing pricey clothing doesn't effect my pocket book during this recession, I'm just as broke when she wears J Crew and Gap as I am when she wear Lanvin or Jason Wu. It doesn't hurt my feelings lol
"And another thing Mrs. O wearing pricey clothing doesn’t effect my pocket book during this recession, I’m just as broke when she wears J Crew and Gap as I am when she wear Lanvin or Jason Wu. It doesn’t hurt my feelings lol"
And let the Church say AMEN! LOL
I knew that Mrs. O had other engagements that day! There was no way she put on that fabulous dress just for third graders. They are important too, but they won't appreciate such a fab dress and they'd be just as happy with an old one she already has. I won't be surprised if this dress appears on a mag cover and that she also had a photoshoot that day/
I agree, ignore the negativity. This is an established woman who before becoming 1st lady had corporate jobs and husband made money a senator and wrote to books, so I think they can afford to buy their own clothes. Ok now that I have said my piece Im moving on and would just like to add she looked FAB!
Mrs. O wearing pricey clothing doesn’t effect my pocket book during this recession, I’m just as broke when she wears J Crew and Gap as I am when she wear Lanvin or Jason Wu. It doesn’t hurt my feelings lol
And the church said, AMEN! I think that people get caught up in her wearing pricey clothes because it reminds them that they can't afford it, especially in this economy! EVen at $3000, it would still be an enormous amount for some, let alone $3000!
Hmm looks as thought there are two of us DEE's on here, I will start going by Dee84 so there is no confusion
To those that are so uneasy with their financial success. Once they get out of office, these two are only going to get richer. Can you imagine how an Obama memoir after he leaves the White House will sell? Do you know how much his speaking engagements will garner? Any endorsement of a product (even if it is done subliminally) will be worth millions. Everything they touch will turn to gold. and without the scrutiny, they can do and wear whatever the heck they want! So bury your head in the sand if how they spend their money bothers you so much! They are only getting richer!
Joanne -- Thanks for posting the links to the videos. They are so delightful!
The right wing talking point is how expensive the First Lady clothes are and that the tax payers are paying for them. Don't be fooled by these troll!
Watching the card game, here are some points of note:
Since it was July 4th, that much have been Malia's birthday.
It is nice to see their sacrifices on the campaign trail get rewarded with victory.
I really liked that tank top and skirt combination on Michelle. I tried that once. With my big boobs, I was spilling out everywhere.
Lastly, can I just say- Barack is soooooo sexy!!!
Anyone know when Mrs. O will give commencement address?
The President did a great job last night!!!!!!!
Mrs. A - LOL! You sound like the villain in a movie.
I actually think the Obamas are pretty normal folks. I think they aspire to have as normal as possible a life, for the sake of their kids. And I don't think that will change once they leave office, regardless of how wealthy they are.
I do know ONE thing. If I was lucky enough to have the money to buy a dress by Lanvin (or Michael Kors or Jason Wu) I would certainly not even think twice. And I am sure Michelle doesn't either. She give back in plenty of ways and I know she always will.
Thanks,Me. I would post more videos but I think I'm gonna avoid this thread like the plague until another topic emerges. Its like having a circular conversation.
@Nicole-Her commencement address is on Sat.-I hope the cable news carries it live. Yeah the President did extremely well yesterday.
All this talk of cost is starting to make me angry. I'm getting the impression some people surf around trolling sites in an attempt to start a fight (and it's working with me! ) or create controversy where none exists.
(just deleted a longer on-point rant, but short version: a sympathetic and intelligent person would assume Mrs. Obama is following the law re gifts & loans (google Nancy Reagan for background); it's her own money; we haven't actually been privileged to see her receipts and, although listed on ONE website don't actually know what she's paid; if someone wants to study Mrs. Bush's wardrobe & that of former FL's and get back to us on what they paid for their lovely clothes then have at it; etc.)
Hmmm... THAT wasn't short enough!
Here is a short video (not long enough for me) of Michelle with the children yesterday. This was taken at the very end of her time with the kids:
abcnews(dot)go(dot)com/video/playerIndex?id=7582096
Joane, those clips are SO CUTE, especially the second one. I can't even handle it. It's crazy how protective I feel of those children. (And I really want to see the rest of that dress MO's wearing in the first clip--the back of it is HOT.) Also, Ari, I watched the President's commencement address too--what a wonderful speech. Such a great and motivating message for those kids to get as they start their adult lives (and for the rest of us too). Looking forward to Mrs. Obama's turn. Also, Jenna, Janelle, IVA, etc, right on.
Oh, and I really like this dress, and more than that am just struck all over again at how beautiful the First Lady herself is. I feel like she keeps getting prettier and prettier. Maybe she actually does (a nice counter to the usual ideas about what happens as women age!), or maybe it's the phenomenon where the more you get to know someone (or "know," in this case) and the more you like them (not that I didn't always like her!), the better-looking you think they are. Whatever it is, I think she's gorgeous.
I was hesitant to bring up the POTUS' address at ASU last night but since you did...*smile*
I thought he was great! I liked that he took the controversy head on and talked about the students never resting on their laurels and always striving to add to their body of work. Cannot wait to here MrsO's speech! Too bad she will have to wear a cap and gown so we won't be able to see an nice outfit. lol
While we wait for Mrs. O's next appearance, I have a couple questions for everybody. How has Mrs. O's style influenced you personally? What changes have you made either in your clothing choices or lifestyle in general?
Here's my list:
1. I now wake up at 4:30 and work out almost every day. (I want that woman's arms!!!)
2. I am shopping in my closet and coming up with new combinations I had not considered before (and getting loads of compliments:)
3. When I venture to the stores, I am looking with fresh eyes. (e.g. Last night I bought a pretty floral Jones NY dress called wisteria. I would have never looked at it in the past. My husband actually said he liked it.)A few weeks ago I bought that Talbot's dress from the Essence cover and wore it to a mother daughter tea.
4. I dug out some old brooches out of my jewelery box and started sporting them big time.
5. I have stepped up my volunteer activities (teachng ESL to adults, mentoring high school students, etc.)
6. I bought that upside down tomato thing they advertise on TV but I haven't done anything with it yet. This may be a stretch for me. I don't know nothing 'bout growing tomatoes Ms. Scarlett. LOL.
7. I hardly wear pantyhose anymore and I am wearing more dresses.
8 I almost forgot. I bought a big, wide belt that I wear with almost everything and of course there are the pearls in just about every color and length.
9. I pray for her and her family every day.
Just call me a groupie but I just love everything about our FL.
Now please share how your O thing. Thanks
PS: I am dusting off Love Joens for Saturday night.
My main "Mrs.O" fashion staple is cardigans. I love them so much, I can't explain. Cardigans fit EVERY occasion.
I think about my health now too. I never use to give my health much thought. Now seeing this woman, who is TWICE my age, looking so beautiful and healthy everyday. Even on her bad days (which are few) she always shines. I want to be that way when i am 40 something.
my other "Mrs. O" thing is my vege garden. I am now a tomato, hot peppers, thyme, basil, and eucalyptus planting freak. as well as all my pretty colorful flowers.
Lastly, my relationship with my guy. I cherish it more than I ever have. I want to have a close and endearing love like our President and First Lady does. We definitely don't just go out with friends and family anymore, we go out TOGETHER, JUST US. He is my date and I am his. I love it so much. We go to different places not just the same hangouts.
First Lady Michelle Obama named to Maxim's 100 list. First time a First Lady. Wow!
http://newsbusters.org/blogs/tim-graham/2009/05/14/new-obama-ogling-moment-michelle-obama-makes-maxim-hot-100