The Belle Of The Ball.

They say there's a connection between recession and high heels. Don't ask me to explain it, but almost certainly - funny but true - in a time of serious crisis like the current one, people look for glamour and glee more than usual. Oh, the consolatory power of fashion and (window) shopping!

With Michelle Obama the world seems to be back to the 60s, with women dreaming about the first lady's wardrobe and style: a fresh, democratic mix of established and young designers and low cost items, at least during the presidential campaign. But most of all people is waiting to know what she will be wearing for the Ball on January 20th. Instead of Oscar divas, this time the big/medium/small guns are working for (and dreaming of) her. And the two little ones, as well!

Isaac Mizrahi

Diane Von Furstenberg


Michael Kors


Alexander Wang


Tuleh


Derek Lam


Marchesa


Monique Lhuillier


Carolina Herrera


Marc Jacobs


Tracy Reese


See all the sketches here and here.