Maybe it comes from watching too many Jane Austen adaptations and Disney princess movies that I have great expectations when I hear the word “Ball”. I automatically envision ladies in breath-taking evening gowns being whirled around the dance floor by handsome men dressed in their finest evening wear. The two Inaugural Balls for President Obama’s second term left me wanting, not because there were not beautiful gowns and handsomely dressed gentlemen to be seen, but because there was nothing of the romance of Ballroom dancing. The fact is, there is something very ordinaire about people dancing a la club style at a once-in-a-lifetime event even when they are dressed in their expensive finery. Perhaps I want a return to romance, a return to grandeur and style or perhaps I just need an excuse to plan a very exquisite Ball.
Although the lack of elegant dancing may have disappointed me, the gowns did not. Michelle Obama’s gown was perfect. To be quite honest, I liked it so much better than the one she wore four years ago. Although the white gown was gorgeous, I always felt that it was too fussy. I saw the gown, but not the beautiful woman who wore it. This year’s gown, however, receives an A+ in my book. The red color looked great on Michelle and the simple lines with all the many layers, moved and created a wonderful flow. Most importantly, as stunning as the gown was, I never once lost sight of Michelle Obama. In my opinion, whenever the woman outshines the beautiful gown she is wearing, that is a winning look.
Michelle Obama wears Jason Wu 2013
Michelle Obama in Jason Wu 2009
Jill Biden wears Vera Wang 2013
Kudos to Jill Biden, 61, who show us all that 60 is definitely the new 40. She looked beautiful in her shimmering, sleeveless blue gown designed by Vera Wang.
Other Inaugural Ball gowns:
Omarosa Manigault at the Inaugural Ball hosted by BET Networks at Smithsonian American Art Museum & National Portrait Gallery
Guest at the Inaugural Ball hosted by BET Networks at Smithsonian American Art Museum & National Portrait Gallery
Another Guest at the Inaugural Ball hosted by BET Networks at Smithsonian American Art Museum & National Portrait Gallery
Alicia Keys at the Commander-in-Chief Ball
Looking at all these gowns made me wonder if I could find an Inaugural-worthy dress for under $400.00. After all, I may not have an Inauguration to attend, but, who knows what invitation awaits in tomorrow’s mail.
Draped Lace-Bust Gown
BCBGMAXAZRIA Gown
Cachet One Shoulder Pleated & Embellished Gown
Arabelle
Amsale — High Neck with Bow
Beautiful, beautiful gowns. More importantly how beautiful Michelle and Jill are. They make midllifers like us proud to call them our own. PS If I ever have to worry about wearing an evening gown, I better work on getting my arms in shape!:-)