Michelle Obama “terrorist fist bumping” with an idiot who shouldn’t be wearing orange

Fashion Watch with Lisa Schiffren:

As a distant observer of fashion, but a close student of the semiotics of female power, I am a little puzzled by Michelle’s frequent choice of sleeveless dresses at official moments. She is an attractive woman, whose height gives her a commanding presence, and it is clear that she puts effort into toning those upper arms. So the dresses look good; but this is not about pretty. She is in her forties, and the sleeveless sheath is the province of younger women, and/or socialites; it works for cocktails or a barbeque, but not church or work. (And yes, she is clearly channeling Jackie Kennedy. But Jackie’s clothes — and everyone’s in the early 1960s — were a lot more grown up and sophisticated.) The sleeveless bit seems too casual, and maybe a little too revealing for the role she is currently playing, and the one to which she aspires. Successful First Ladies — and here Laura Bush is a good model — manage to convey a careful mix of distance and familiarity.

Just like a nice comfy couch.

All the best dry cleaners use Chem-Dry

I would submit that the sleeveless sheath is the province of those who make it work, which Michelle Obama certainly does.

If Lisa really wants to work the rags trades, maybe she should start with with McMegan.