Michelle Obama's Stunning Atelier Versace Dress Marks a New Style Era for First Ladies

Jaws have dropped

By Diana Nguyen Oct 19, 2016 12:51 AMTags
ESC: Michelle Obama, 2016Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP/REX/Shutterstock

Michelle Obama knows how to go out in style.

At her final state dinner, the first lady wore a custom, chainmail, rose-gold Atelier Versace gown that had us thinking it was the Oscars or the Met Gala. Paired with metallic eyes and a nude glossy lip, this is a Hollywood look if we've ever seen one—and quite a departure from the more subtle gowns Michelle has worn in state dinners' past.

"I am humbled and honored to have the opportunity to dress the first lady of the United States Michelle Obama. Thank you, Michelle, for all of the things you have done for America and for the rest of the world, for the women in the United States and the rest of the world," said designer Donatella Versace in a statement.

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The first lady is no stranger to high fashion, often wearing and supporting both emerging and celeb-loved names, like Brandon Maxwell, Jason Wu and Very Wang to previous dinners at the White House. 

However, the designs have typically been relatively conservative, often featuring an A-line or column silhouette. The color—perhaps a burnt orange or deep purple—would be the boldest aspect of the dress, and if there was a print or embellishment, it was used only to enhance her overall the look.

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Michelle Obama's Best Looks
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This sparkly confection, however, speaks for itself. Quite the risqué move for the first lady, the form-fitting dress is ruched and hugs her in all the right places. We see curves that were once hidden under big ball gowns, long trains and layers of draping. Not to mention, the color is completely on trend (hello, Kylie Jenner's rose-gold hair!). Of course, it's not a Michelle-approved gown without the ability to show off those toned arms.

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Michelle Obama's Famous Friends
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If you're getting total Blake Lively at Cannes or Emilia Clarke at the 2016 Emmys vibes, you're not alone. Both looks, by the way, were also Versace. 

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Perhaps, it's because it's Mrs. Obama's last state dinner that she's open to taking more glamorous risks.

One thing is for sure: It's a new look for Michelle—one we'll hopefully see more of post-White House and from future first ladies to come.