Michelle Obama [1] is no stranger to electric yellow dresses [2], and her latest neon number — a custom Schiaparelli haute couture gown — is a straight-up work of art. Attending the American Portrait Gala in Washington DC last night, where she was photographed with Lin-Manuel Miranda [3], Michelle stunned in the scintillating look, which, according to the Italian fashion house's Creative Director Daniel Roseberry, was all about representing the inner workings of a dress on the exterior.
"The inspiration for the shape originally came from the crinoline, which is often found underneath couture gowns, but the real starting point for the overall look was the color," Roseberry said in a press release. "The acidic tone echoes Elsa Schiaparelli's signature shocking pink, and we also felt that it matched the strength and energy of Mrs. Obama. It was such an honor to make this special gown for her."
Giving us major holiday dressing [4] inspiration, we're jumping at the chance to go bolder and brighter with a luminous yellow silhouette. Sure, the holiday season is never short of razzle-dazzle dresses and glittering accessories, but this electric hue is our top pick for a making a fashion-forward statement.
Ahead, witness Michelle in all her glittering Schiaparelli glory, plus the gorgeous sketch of her gown by Daniel. Then, shop our edit of high-wattage yellow and gold gowns, whether you're craving a mini for cocktails, a midi for a festive outing, or a floor-length gown for a swanky event.
Michelle Obama in a Custom Schiaparelli Haute Couture Gown
With Lin-Manuel Miranda [5].
A Sketch of Michelle Obama's Custom Schiaparelli Haute Couture Gown
By Schiaparelli Creative Director Daniel Roseberry.
Zara Limited Edition Sequin Dress
Zara Limited Edition Sequin Dress [6] ($129)
Mango Sequined Gown
Mango Sequined Gown [7] ($200)
John Zack Plus Bodycon Maxi Dress With Ruched Detail
John Zack Plus Bodycon Maxi Dress With Ruched Detail [8] ($92)
Privacy Please Nina Maxi Dress
Privacy Please Nina Maxi Dress [9] ($113, originally $188)
ASOS Design Halter Cowl Front Satin Slip Midi Dress
ASOS Design Halter Cowl Front Satin Slip Midi Dress [10] ($64)
Michelle Mason Bustier Midi Dres
Michelle Mason Bustier Midi Dres [11] ($234, originally $780)
Norma Kamali Diana Gown
Norma Kamali Diana Gown [12] ($215)
Mac Duggal Sequin Illusion Neck Gown
Mac Duggal Sequin Illusion Neck Gown [13] ($398)
OPT Pheme Dress
OPT Pheme Dress [14] ($88, originally $125)
Bardot Sharnie Slip Dress
Bardot Sharnie Slip Dress [15] ($89)
David's Bridal Crepe-Back Satin Strapless Tall Dress
David's Bridal Crepe-Back Satin Strapless Tall Dress [16] ($175)
Retrofete Sequin Cocktail Dress
Retrofete Sequin Cocktail Dress [17] ($497, originally $709)
La Femme Ruched Bodice Sequin Evening Dress
La Femme Ruched Bodice Sequin Evening Dress [18] ($278)
H:ours Crescent Dress
H:ours Crescent Dress [19] ($188)
Galvan London Gilded Roxy Sequin Dress
Galvan London Gilded Roxy Sequin Dress [20] ($1,117, originally $1,595)