Free Republic

In the February 9th issue of New York Magazine, designer Isabel Toledo – who outfitted Michelle Obama for the swearing in ceremony - is asked whether the two women had met. They had, just one time, and Toledo tactfully describes her first impression: “I hugged her and thought ‘Let me see … what size?’ She’s got an amazing torso and long, beautiful arms. She’s like a spider.” Toledo chose not to be blunt about Mrs. Obama having large hips, thighs and buttocks. But rather than be dishonest or fawning, the designer subtly made her point by comparing Mrs. Obama’s figure...

Once again, Michelle Obama confounded the fashion critics with her surprise choice for Inauguration Day. In spite of pundits speculating she would steer clear of anything which suggested 'bling' in a time of worldwide economic crisis, the new First Lady went for gold. She chose a scintillating, pale-gold embossed coat with a matching shift dress which featured a sparkling geometric, diamanté neckline, and cardigan, by one of her favourite designers, Isabel Toledo. She accessorised the ensemble with leather gloves and a pair of British luxury brand, Jimmy Choo shoes, the 'Glacier' patent leather pumps in a striking shade of green....

WASHINGTON (AP) — First lady Michelle Obama wore a sparkling yellow-gold sheath dress with matching coat by Cuban-born American designer Isabel Toledo for the inauguration of her husband, a choice many applauded as a cheerful message of hope and a vote for the American fashion industry. She paired the embellished ensemble with green gloves from J. Crew and green shoes. President Barack Obama wore a red tie and white shirt with his suit, topped with an overcoat adorned with an American flag pin. Their daughters were style icons in their own right, with 10-year-old Malia in a double-breasted periwinkle-blue coat...