MICHELLE OBAMA WITH FRENCH FIRST LADY - CARLA BRUNIAs the Obama's returned from their first European trip as President and First Lady one thing is certain- Michelle Obama proved her ability to charm a nation is not limited to the United States. 
As effortless as Barack Obama made the stressful, and at times tense G20 summit look - Michelle was just as composed as she put country after country under her spell. There is an authenticity to the Obama's that is obvious in ever gesture they make and every sentence they speak. Michelle has excited the fashion world as the latest fashion icon. While it may be early to make these proclamations - it does come with the territory. Every First Lady is at the same time held in high esteem and criticized for any fashion faux pas - real or imagined.
What is so exciting about Mrs. Obama is she has a modern approach to fashion. Mrs. Obama has brought attention to wonderful brands that show women can attend the most formal affair - even if your budget doesn't permit French Couture or strictly designer price points. No-one has looked better - embracing color, style, and above all fashion. Not a fashion victim mind you - just a women who wears fashion that flatters and who will also take risks - not always doing what is expected.
Designers are taking note. Azzedine Alaia is said to be thrilled with how Obama looked in a black dress of his design she wore in Baden-Baden. Rosella Jardini - Creative Director of Moschino is also on Obama's style bandwagon. As is Brunello Cucinelli the Italian designer of his namesake collection and of Gunex Pants - which Obama wore during the trip as well. Needless to say Mickey Drexler of J.Crew is a happy camper - the company could not have wished for a better endorsement - especially one on the global stage! Jason Wu also received more press than he could have ever hoped for when Obama wore his designs in January.
Not so thrilled with Michelle Obama is Oscar de La Renta. Oscar thinks Mrs. Obama should stick to more traditional designers (likely his own) when she is attending official engagements. What can you say? Oscar is from another era - and Laura Bush - Michelle Obama is NOT.