Michelle Obama Style

Michelle Obama has barely placed a kitten heel in the White House and already her unique style has earned her the title of the next Jackie O. Known for ingeniously mixing low-end pieces with favorite designers like Maria Pinto, Thakoon, and Isabel Toledo, our newest First Lady promises to bring with her four years (or more) of accessible style that will reach all corners of the globe. We’ve compiled a guide to the staples Michelle is rarely seen without, so you too can pull inspiration from this modern fashion icon.

For more top picks, check out our guides to celeb handbags, celeb denim, and jewelry staples.

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Brooches

Brooches are a perfectly chic, adult accessory.  A well-placed accent in the form of a brooch can make any simply stylish outfit stand out just a little more.

Michelle has single-handedly brought the brooch out of hybernation, pairing the once-matronly accessory with everything from a pearl necklace to a J. Crew sweater.	Alexis Bittar Flower Pin $495 Alexis Bittar’s flower pin will add a subtle dash of color to your bland separates.	Estate Vintage Brooch $425 For a delicate, vintage feel, opt for an estate brooch from Ylang 23. Expect it to become an instant conversation piece.

Kitten Heels

Whether or not you’re taller than your significant other, kitten heels give you a reasonable amount of lift while looking understated and elegant.

Michelle has resurrected the kitten heel as her preferred footwear of choice. A happy medium between the ballet flat and the sky-high stiletto, the kitten heel provides comfortable height in a professional package. .	Bally Florendine D’Orsay Pumps $217.22 Mrs. O. has been spotted regularly in black patent heels. A pair like Bally Floredine D’Orsay pumps will never go out of style – kind of like Michelle’s entire wardrobe.	Hollywood Washington Kitten Heel Pump $217.22 Ideal for the office, the appropriately named Washington pumps by Hollywould are perfectly professional without being boring.

Fitted Dresses

A well-tailored dress is an absolute must-have.  In fact, it’s probably best to own several, in multiple colors.  You can’t go wrong with a simple sheath fitted to your shape.

Sorry pantsuits – Michelle has made it quite clear that the dress will have a permanent place in the White House.  Almost exclusively seen in bold hues and exciting prints, Michelle is not afraid to go beyond neutrals…and the risk has paid off..	High-twist Wool Dress $41.99 Michelle caused a stir showing up at the White House in a fiery, fitted red dress by Maria Pinto. We found a nearly identical match at Talbots for a fraction of the price.	Thakoon Kimono Dress $875 One of the most memorable dresses worn this year was the kimono print dress by Thakoon. Add some sparkling accessories, and you’ll have the look down pat.

Belted Jackets

To flatter your torso and look one-hundred-percent put together, wear a belted jacket.  Michelle favors hers in neutral colors, which means they’re versatile in addition to fashionable.

When she’s not donning a dress, Michelle is often seen in belted jackets – another versatile staple that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.	Magical Mohair Jacket $298 A navy belted jacket like French Connection’s mohair jacket is both chic and incredibly comfortable.	Ann Taylor Cap Sleeve Belted Jacket $69.99 For a weekend look that’s sharper than sweatpants but more relaxed than pinstripes, throw on Ann Taylor’s cap sleeve belted jacket with a pair of dark jeans and riding boots.