You may have heard about some silly faux pas President Obama made during a dinner at Buckingham Palace yesterday by lifting his glass before The Queen, while giving a toast! Because, honestly, we could have a discussion about Prince Philip and his mishandling of this Official Photo, but I digress.  So let’s get serious here.  Look. At. FLOTUS.  Could Michelle Obama possibly look a little more regal?  I think not.

Queen Elizabeth, President Obama, Michelle Obama and Prince Philip

via NewYorkMag.com

“[Michelle Obama] looked smashing at every step and, after meeting Kate Middleton in a Barbara Tfank dress, she had the nerve to change into a Tom Ford gown for a state banquet at Buckingham Palace with the Queen, adhering to the formal dress code with a pair of long white gloves.  This is the first time Michelle has been photographed in Tom Ford, making what may be her best-dressed overseas trip just that much more dramatic.

However, her primary intent may not have been to send all her Ford-obsessed fashion-people fans into bliss-induced seizures. The Telegraph‘s Hilary Alexander notes that Ford is American, with headquarters in London, so “subtle fashion politics” seemed to be at play.”

First Lady Michelle Obama

Image composite via Styleite

Have I mentioned that I adore Tom Ford?  (I mean in the past five minutes…)  Mrs. Obama was the epitome of sexy-chic elegance combined with classic grace.  It’s crystal-clear what an important fashion icon our First Lady truly has become. I see a huge resurgence in opera gloves, and the chandelier earrings and crystal clutch bag are impeccable.

Might I add that President Obama looks pretty fab himself?

Love a white-tie with a beautifully cut tuxedo.

Nicely done, Mr. President

Good news!  I did find (via Glamour/eDressMe) a lovely dress that is quite similar to the glorious Tom Ford gown that I doubt many of us could squeeze into our budgets (granted this one isn’t inexpensive by any means, either–but it’s all relative, right?)

Ivory Silk Halter Gown by Theia – $795 – eDressMe.com

This Theia gown is a perfect alternative, don’t you think?

Photos: GettyImages