Jason Wu, the designer behind Michelle Obama’s inauguration dress

by Brittany Anas · January 22, 2013

By Brittany Anas

Whether you’re a donkey or an elephant (talking about party registration using figurative animals makes politics sound less contentious, yes?), might we agree that Michelle Obama looked stunning at the inauguration ball? And, that her arms looked especially toned and were appropriately adorned with sparkly bangles?

It’s rumored that some 15 designers offered up designs for the First Lady’s inaguration gown. But, she stuck with one of her favorite designers — Jason Wu, whose become a fashion giant accelerating in popularity over the past four years.

For her husband’s second inauguration, the First Lady wore a ruby red gown with velvet detailing that was custom made for her by Wu. She also wore a Wu gown to the the first inauguration after her husband was first elected in 2008 — though, then she wore a cream, one shoulder gown.

Here’s the low-down on one of the First Lady’s favorite designers. (She was also wearing Jimmy Choo shoes and is known to get her more casual outfits from J.Crew).

Who is Jason Wu?: Little-known fact about the now famous designer: He started sewing for dolls, and got his start by doing freelance designs for toy companies. Wu was born in Taiwan, but his school years spun him around the globe — including a stint in Deerfield, Mass. His first collection of clothes (for people, not dolls) launched in 2006.

Famous people Wu has worked with: What do the First Lady and RuPaul have in common? They’ve both been customers of Wu. The designer has also worked with actress January Jones. And, Ivana Trump. (See, he’s a bipartisan designer).

Where can you shop Jason Wu’s designs: A year ago, Wu collaborated with Target for a collection that was perfectly structured and polished, yet feminine and extremely well-priced. His designs included lots of crisp whites and blacks and patriotic reds and whites, as well as some soft spring light blues.

Now, you can find his designs at department stores.

Here are a few of our favorites that are in stores or up for pre-order. The pieces will cost you a pretty penny.

• Jason Wu corded lace front top in navy. $790 from Nordstrom.

• Jason Wu leather and lace racerback shell. $1,585 from Nordstrom. The black and white color blocked shell has lambskin leather detailing makes up the front, and sexy lace adorns the back.

• Jason Wu racerback combo dress. $3,250 from Neiman Marcus. Similar to the racerback shell, but in dress form with a lady-like A-line cut.

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