Michelle Obama stuck to some of her fashion favorites for the state dinner honoring Mexican President Felipe Calderon and his wife, Margarita Zavala: a one-shouldered silhouette, a belted waist, a bold color — and designer Peter Soronen.
This was the fourth time the first lady chose a gown by the New York-based Soronen, who has had his own label since 2000 but has largely flown under the fashion industry's radar.
Soronen said he knew the corset-style gown, complete with lace-up back, was being considered for Wednesday's lavish event that drew about 200 people, including celebrities Whoopi Goldberg, Eva Longoria Parker and George Lopez. But he didn't know for sure until a reporter from The Associated Press called asking for confirmation after Mrs. Obama stepped out on the president's arm.
"In some ways, it's more exciting not to know and just wait for the photo," Soronen said.
Other designers who contribute to Mrs. Obama's eveningwear wardrobe have said it also works that way. They make custom gowns with the understanding that there's no guarantee if, when or where she'll wear them. >>>
