With the presidential debates in full swing, most collegiettes and collegents are glued to their televisions- or that live stream online. While the debates prompt an intellectual conversation about our nation’s future and establish classic election one-liners such as “binder full of women” – thanks for that one, Mitt- style savants observe an unspoken battle: the fashion face-off between Michelle Obama and Ann Romney. In the event you’ve just joined the game- watch out, it’s addicting- allow me to bring you up to speed.
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Round One: The Conventions
The proverbial gloves officially came off at each political party’s National Convention. Michelle gave a phenomenal speech at the Democratic National Convention; however, the ensemble is subpar. For starters, that silhouette of the Tracy Reese dress is just not flattering on her. Oh how I long for the times when Michelle rocked A-line skirts. Also, that the abrupt color switch at the bottom of the dress looks messy for the DNC. Ann, on the other hand, is polished in her red Oscar de la Renta number. Ladylike peep-toe heels and delicate jewels complement the outfit’s bold hue. This major election fashion moment proves that Ann has what it takes to the “Stylish First Lady Club.”
Winner: Romney
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Round Two: The First Presidential Debate
The first presidential debate was all about red, white, and blue: Michelle’s cobalt blue suit, Ann’s white ensemble, and the figurative red blood that leaked from the debate’s stage. Fashionistas can appreciate the soft peplum incorporated into Ann’s ensemble as well as the slimming seams; however, Michelle’s outfit reins superior. Not only is that blue just delectable, especially paired with that printed shirt, I’m obsessed with the silhouette. The cropped jacket and high-waisted skirt create this subtle hourglass figure that screams femininity. Michelle’s style homerun solidifies her role as a fashion icon.
Winner: Obama
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Round Three: The Second Presidential Debate
Well it seem as if Schiaparelli pink is the color on Capitol Hill. Personally, I’m disappointed with each ensemble. First of all, is that a bolero I see on Michelle? As much as I adore our First Lady, I’m not a huge fan of the jacket. Combined with the pearls, this ensemble is too serious- even for a presidential debate! Since we’re all so jealous of her trophy wife arms, Michelle should’ve rocked shorter sleeves like Ann. But that’s not to say I’m voting Republican this round. While I love Ann’s shift dress, I absolutely loathe her accessories A statement necklace and thin wired bracelets and hoop earrings? Way too much! This look would’ve been a million times better if she had just paired the dress with the contrasting blue necklace. A note to our election ladies: a shocking pink does not need a jacket or clashing accessories –the hue can just stand alone for a polished effect.
Winner: Draw
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Round Four: Coral and White
Just because the two presidential candidates have different beliefs doesn’t mean their wives can’t have similar views on fashion. The two ladies both sported a coral sweater paired with a crisp white button-down shirt. Eerily similar, right? Though I like Ann’s attention to detail- that necklace matches perfectly with Ann’s orange-coral sweater- the chunkiness of the necklace makes this ensemble a little too top-heavy. Michelle, on the other hand, realized that less than be more. The resident First Lady’s use of ruffles commands attention without creating a fashion faux pas. For a finishing touch, Michelle creates an hourglass figure with a thick belt. Brava, Michelle!
Winner: Obama
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Round Five: Cool in Blue
While both ladies look divine in blue, I adore Ann’s take on this eye-popping hue. First of all, the First Lady hopeful’s dress works with her natural figure. Though some may think the matching jacket is uber conservative, it’s cropped enough to adhere to the dress’ established shape. Not to mention that her brooch is absolutely gorgeous—the gold makes the accessory a statement piece while the hint of blue creates a cohesive look. To make the dress pop, Ann pairs this ensemble with nude ladylike pumps. As much as I love a long-sleeved dress, the brooch actually makes the ensemble look sloppy. Come on, Michelle!
Winner: Romney
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Wildcard: Obama’s Inaugural Ball
There is no way we can conclude this fashion face-off without paying homage to Michelle’s Inaugural Ball gown. The dress’ angelic white is a clean slate, allowing the juxtaposition between the ethereal appliqué and bold asymmetrical shoulder to shine through. Let’s not forget that this moment singlehandedly put Jason Wu on the map. Michelle, fashion nerds across the country are forever grateful.
What are your thoughts? Sound off below! HCXX