Monday
Jul042011
Happy Fourth of July
Monday, July 4, 2011 at 8:54 PM 
Photo by Kevin Dietsch / Getty Images
Happy Fourth of July dear readers! The President and First Lady celebrated Independance Day with a South Lawn barbecue for White House staff and armed servicemen and women today. For the patriotic occasion, Mrs. O donned a red and blue floral dress by Sophie Theallet, from the designer's Spring 2011 collection, seen here. Black ruffle sandals carried through the black accent of the dress straps, while beaded Jordan Alexander bracelets and hoop earrings accessorized the ensemble. Hope everyone is having a spendid holiday weekend!
tagged Jordan Alexander, Sophie Theallet
Jordan Alexander, Sophie Theallet
Reader Comments (40)
What a beautiful and patriotic look for Mrs. Obama!
"God Bless America!"
I love love love love the whole look.... superb!
Lanvin shoes and Sophie custom. She made this dress for retail in a short version. Fun piece
Great picture, great fashion!
Hope all our American contributors enjoyed celebrating their Independence Day!
A very pretty and patriotic dress, although the black straps are a little jarring on such a flowery and feminine piece. Mr. President looks good in blue also!
The dress is so perfect for the fourth and a BBQ, but I don't think the sandals have been correctly identified. Maybe someone else could chime in on the designer for them.
Hope everyone had a great 4th!
I love the dress and those sandals!
Mary Ellen, with a second look, I agree with you. They are similar styles, but there are subtle differences between the sandals that Mrs. O is wearing and the Lanvin pair.
http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/97131#
Lanvin sandals.
I looked at a high-resolution photo and don't think they're the exact same sandals -- though they are quite similar. The footbed of Mrs. O's sandals (at the toe) is black, while on the Lanvin sandals this part is tan. The ruffles on Mrs. O's sandals are frayed and a bit further spaced. There also appears to be a white/pearl beaded embellishment on Mrs. O's sandals, while the embellishment on the Lanvin sandals is metallic. Also perhaps some additional straps on Mrs. O's pair, near the heel. I'm hesitant to cite them as Lanvin without being sure, as it invites critcism about the cost, which may not be merited.
I like this whole look! The "sweet" floral with the "strong" mix of the dress straps and the sandals is an unexpected delightful fashion statement for me....
OMG, the style of the dress is FABOLOUS. The vibrant colors is great for a picnic on a beautiful sunny day.
That dress is splendidly gorgeous. I love bright colours.
I love the fact that Mrs. Obama has brought back the casual dress. It's just such a natural item to wear on a hot day, but had been pushed aside for a long time. I now wear dresses to casual backyard parties and never feel over-dressed, whereas before the uniform was capris or shorts (shudder for those over 35). And, I love the colors!! The fireworks display, shown on our local PBS station, was spectacular. I really respect the Obamas for staying in DC during the 4th and celebrating with the troops and their families.
Not really feeling this dress and don't th\ink the shoes are flattering.
I think the photo shows the First Couple happy to be together - they are a great team.
This is a perfect example of how to dress patriotically without replicating the U.S. Flag. She looks great, and comfortable enough to enjoy the holiday with her family.
Charell S. for Bien Abye by Dayanne Danier
@Christen. The whole strap is not black, only the front of the top part. The back of the strap is the same pattern as the dress. And that is what makes Our First Lady thinks out of the box. The black sandals complimented the strap very well. So, suffice to say, before WE critique our likes and dislikes, let's see the whole thing. It really works well when you see the whole dress. Any other color than black sandals would have been to "matchy". She is so amazing because, I never know what to expect and that is so refreshing.
A blessed and wonderful couple.
What a poppy summer dress!
And... How about a shout-out to our POTUS? ... He seems to have finally ditched the dreaded front-pleat chinos! (You know -- that style that make every Casual Friday guy look awkwardly pudgy? Even the slim ones!)
Vibrant colors! Beautiful!
LDS: I said nothing about Mrs. O's sandals. Please get your facts straight. Since I am busy, I am not about to go hunting all over the Internet for other pics of the dress. I rely on Mrs. T. I still say the straps are jarring.
The Lavin sandals are serious nice.
@Christen: Calm down. I apologize for not getting the facts right. But what is jarring to you is pleasing to the eyes of others. The time it took you to answer back (as busy as you are) you could have clicked on at least (2) sites.
I appreciate Mrs. T. post, but I rely on my own taste in style, as I am sure you do. I am sorry if you were offended by my post. It was only meant to say that the straps worked well with the sandals. The sandals may seem jarring to others who are not accustom to this style (not you, of course).
I liked the dress so much, I wanted to see more of it. It had nothing to do with how busy I was. I was just interested in seeing another angle.
And it looked even better from the back. I am sure Mrs. O. toned back and shoulders had a lot to to with that. It had me to think out of the box the next time that I buy a summer dress. I was inspired. Isn't this one of the reasons we post here? Surely, not to offend or insult one another. That was not my intention.
You need not answer......I understand.
LOVES IT!!! (and I mean THE COUPLE, but I like the dress too ;-)
OAN: Here is a pic of Mrs. O at a baseball game yesterday.
http://theobamadiary.com/2011/07/05/first-pitch-first-lady/
She's so COOL!!
I like the dress, love the colors and that is looks like such a comfortable summer dress, however it is NOT flattering at all on her. It makes her look big, like she has a very heavy bottom/tummy. I think it is because it is pleated. Mrs. O have a nice figure, but this dress doesn't help. I think the model looks good, but of course, she is a size 0. I think Mrs. O has that problem, she likes items on the models but they don't go with her shape (same happens to me)...
I love the dress. The straps are fine, and I agree with all aspects of your post, LDS.
Happy belated 4th to all of the Happy People!!
She looks great in this dress. It's a fun summer piece. I do believe that this dress was modified for her. I tried on the retail version and it was too short. Looks fantastic on her and the straps' fabric is similar to the shoes.
Awesome awesome
Lovely dress, for sure. Initially the "black/hybrid" (or whatever color you know-it-all fashionistas say they are) straps caused me to raise a brow. But then I paused and considered the "who-what-where..." of the item, and thought, "Yes...Michelle Obama...That works!" And the President looks quite casual-cool himself, considering (so unfortunate) that he isn't "allowed" to be "fashionable" in the purest, unfettered sense of the word, given his job title. (The cacophony of his critics would drive me insane!)
On a side note: It's disappointing that a (growing) number of commenters on this site feel necessary to not only share their comments/opinions, but to "attack" (however slyly or passive-aggressively) the comments of those who have a different assessment of the items posted here. Sure, I understand most of us love/admire/respect the first lady (I certainly do!), but she's a "big girl" (It's a figure of speech; don't go THERE!:-), and has shown herself to be more than capable at handling her critics. I simply cannot fathom her wasting any time or losing any sleep over a less than flattering comment about her clothing posted on a Website. If I recall, didn't she dismiss the critics of her last State dinner dress on the Today Show with a verbal wave of the hand, by commenting, "It's a dress."?
I love her choice of this stylish and comfortable patriotic look. This link has 17 great pictures of her rocking various outfits in red, white and/or blue since she has been our FLOTUS!
Michelle is not a big girl. She's in great shape. Her shape is not straight and that's neither good nor bad. If you fitted her in skirt separates, she would be a larger size on the bottom than the top. Alot of people who comment on her clothes don't know these designers. I wear many of these designers and have purchased some if the pieces that she has worn. It's often clear to me that she knows what she's doing. Everything is fitted perfectly. Also, a piece that I may not have purchased because of the cut has been modified for her. I love that she knows what works. Occasionally, I don't like the fabric, but never do I think, it's an unflattering fit. She's usually spot on and she takes risks. That's a hard road and she does it well. I'm so proud of her and appreciate how her choices influence women. I no longer wear panty hose unless it's dead of winter and I need it. She made me feel okay about that and I'm so much more comfortable. God bless her and her family. I can't imagine being in that spotlight -- I can't imagine the sacrifice
@Janet: If I were near you right now, I would give a big Michelle hug!
You expressed everything that I have been feeling for quite a while.
I have always thought of myself as someone who dared to be different and love to shop in small boutique shops. I seldom try anything on, I just knew that it would fit mainly because I knew my body shape. Sometimes I would buy a jacket in one size and the skirt in another. (not hating that you wear the designer's clothes either)
Thanks to you, I realize why I appreciate Our First Lady's style, smart thinking, and just her freedom of being who she is and ever so comfortable with her decision in what she choses to wear. My sentiments exactly on being in the spotlight and the sacrifices that comes along with knowing the whole world is watching, ready to give their opinions, pro or con.
But, ahh, the comfort of not wearing panythose. I , too, only wear them if I absolutely, positivley must. I just adore Our First Lady for that! The beauty of it all, she simply says, they don't fit.(paraphrasing, of course)
From a woman who has been there, done the pantyhose adventure, enough already!
To women who enjoy wearing them......PEACE!
Great for you, Janet. Glad to hear that you've been inspired. However, you COMPLETELY missed the "context" in which I used the term "big girl."
I know that I'm late to the party on this one, but this sure is a happy dress. It's not the traditional red, white and blue that we will see on 4th of July and that's ok. Both of them look happy, healthy and relaxed and that's good enough for me.
@lds. Hugs to you too. I hope everyone is enjoying the summer. Also, if any of you wanted some of the pieces that Michelle wore this season they are all on sale now. Barneys has the shoes at 60 off in the July 4th pic. The dress is gone, but so many of of the other lovely things that she purchased are 60 -70 off at barneys, neimans or saks
I do think the first lady has also reminded us that we don't have to wear designer to look good. And she also knows that not all designer is amazing. I buy pieces from american apparel, talbots and target. One of my good friends buys from forever 21. You don't have to spend thousands of dollars to look amazing
Finally, everyone take care of your health. Eat better, lose weight ( see a nutrionist for guidance) and exercise. Get out and run. If you're out of shape, go slowly. Walk then run. Don't push it. And if you're smoking, go to your doctor and get help to stop. Cigarettes are deadly. Enjoy your family and friends. These are the messages that she's communicating to the country.
Have a great weekend everyone
Okay so I have a question I've wanted to ask for a while (and yes I'm serious).
I'm about the same age as Mrs. O. I have two children about the same age as hers and I've been a size 8 since high school. But I simply CAN'T wear strapless or thin strap dresses becasue my breast have lost all their "perk". Yes I work about five times per week and I'm in pretty good condition. For me this is not an issue of expercise.
I look at our beautiful first lady and realize she can wear strapless or thin strap dresses and look GREAT in them. If I wore this dress my breast would be... well let's just say much lower.
So (and I really mean no disrepsect) can someone tell me her secret (or for that matter just give me any advice short of surgery). Is there a bra eveyone knows about but me that fits under the breast and allows women of our age to wear strapless, backless or thin strap dresses. I feel like I my summer and formal clothes are soooo limited becasue of this problem.
Help!
The sandal on her right foot looks fine. If she had chosen a slightly strappier black pair without an ankle starp the look would have worked perfectly.
Hey@Joyce, to comment on your bra question: first off make sure your bras are underwire for proper lift and separation. I know that has helped me with some of the concerns you mentioned. Also, I have to look for clothing with slightly wider straps to accomadate the bra straps. As far as a paticular bra, you just have to try tons of them on and consider getting a professional bra fitting. I hope that helps...good luck
@Joyce: I agree with Adear, a professional bra fitting is crucial.
Also, It really does not look as terrible if the straps have to show with straps that are clear, plastic or (I am hoping that someone design colorful straps) if they have not already done so. I just love sun dresses, even if they make your stomach and whatever hangs. They are just comfortable and my whole objective is to be comfortable, cool while outside in the hot summer heat.
Of course, I vow to workout more during the winter after the last summer outing is finished. One can only hope. But ,in the meantime, hanging loose and looking decent, sometimes sexy(at least that is what my husband says) and enjoying the season is what it is all about. And Our First Lady seems to be doing all of the above.
the dress is available at saks 5th avenue for $298.49
www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374306418059&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446396329&R=410521618552&P_name=Sophie+Theallet&N=1553+306418059+1535+1536+399545627+1537&bmUID=j56dkJa