Michelle Obama's Dress at Acceptance Speech Sets Stage for Spring Fashion Trends

Michelle Obama's dress selection at the presidential election acceptance speech is making waves in the fashion world, setting a new trend for the modern woman in a position of power. Her style is sophisticated but sassy, refined but down-to-earth, and notably different from Sarah Palin's and Cindy McCain's attention-grabbing wardrobes. Michelle Obama is now officially under the fashion radar, and the presidential events gave her a chance to welcome the crowds in an attractive red and black dress from designer Narciso Rodriguez, setting the stage for Spring 2009 fashion trends.

Michelle Obama's Dress Becomes a Fashion 'Do' for Spring 2009 Trends

Every First Lady comes under scrutiny for her style, taste in fashion and clothing selections for public appearances. The UK Times Online describes Michelle Obama as a 'new type of First Lady', a woman who isn't afraid to break conventional rules but steps boldly into the spotlight with confidence, a down-to-earth demeanor and a fearless fashion sense that makes her stand apart in many ways from former President's wives.

The now-famous red and black dress is fresh from the Spring 2009 collection from Narciso Rodriguez, a world-renown designer who has supplied Mrs. Obama with several distinct pieces over the course of the campaign. The dress is a simple but bold sleeveless, double-sash dress with a bright red smattering of color down the center; Mrs. Obama wore hers with a black cardigan during President Obama's acceptance speech on Tuesday night.

Michelle Obama - Politically-Influenced Fashion?

The Wall Street Journal reports that retail orders for Michelle Obama's dresses have increased by as much as 45% over the past year as the First Lady continued to make appearances in dozens of classy, simple and elegant dresses and suits that appealed to average-sized women with simple tastes. For some, the 'simple' tastes were a far cry from Sarah Palin's $150,000+ designer wardrobe, and analysts suggest that Mrs. Obama's selections may have had a political motive.