It is the eve of President elect Obama's inauguration and all of the media is abuzz with anticipation of the event. As in every inaugural celebration, there is intrigue about what the new First Lady, Michelle, will wear and we will surely become a nation of armchair fashion critics.
As we all know, Jackie Kennedy was an American icon of style and came to assume an important role as an international fashion leader. She also patronized American fashion designers which gave an enormous boost to the industry. Jackie Kennedy was highly fashion literate and knew exactly what suited her for both leisure activities and more formal First Lady occasions. The key words for any First Lady - or for any woman who holds a political role of importance - are simplicity, elegance and appropriateness.
The past many years, I've had the opportunity to "polish" both men and women in the political arena. For men, it's not as challenging as their needs are far less complex. Women, on the other hand, are another story. The hairstyle has to suit the woman, yet be polished, neat and current. Makeup should be precisely the right "recipe" and perfectly applied - yet never overdone. Clothing, no matter what the venue, should be simple in style, fitting to perfection, always suitable for the occasion with just a bit of WOW factor in the most understated way. With world events as they are today, women in American politics must practice a careful balancing act of strength, intelligence, polished elegance and professionalism. All of this - with a natural charm.
