Getty Images / AP / RexWe've just gotten so used to giving a big seal of approval to almost everything the president's wife has worn in public, we almost forgot that we're heading into the home stretch.
Today Michelle Obama is celebrating what is for the most part her final birthday as first lady (she'll still technically be first lady until the inauguration on Jan. 20, 2017, but there will be a president-elect-and-spouse come November), and to say we've been spoiled rotten in the glamorous-yet-approachable fashion department for the past seven years is an understatement.
When she moved into the White House in 2009 alongside President Barack Obama, this first lady brought with her a keen sense of modern, professional style. FLOTUS quickly became known for her down-to-earth dressing, one day wearing J. Crew and another H&M (or sometimes recycling a look!), even as the most illustrious designers in the industry also lined up to dress her.
Not that she didn't indulge in Monique Lhuillier, Carolina Herrera, Vera Wang and Oscar de la Renta through the years, but Obama has also never been afraid of trying out a newer designer, her endorsement providing instant boosts to the likes of Jason Wu, Thakoon, Mary Katrantzou and Doo-ri Chung.
And whether she's mixing prints, showing off her enviable arms or brightening up an entire State of the Union address in a marigold sheath, we're going to miss the anticipation that comes with waiting to see what Michelle Obama is going to wear at any given event.
However, maybe once there's a gap in her schedule, she could collaborate on a signature line...?
A very happy 52nd birthday to the first lady—here's to one more year of unparalleled chic.