The Strange Secret World of Michelle Obama’s Fashion Department

Gawker ^ | February 22, 2011 | Brian Moylan

[lbryce]

The Strange Secret World of Michelle Obama's Fashion DepartmentEveryone knows that when Michelle Obama wears something in public, it's either going to sell out or cause a controversy. What everyone doesn't know is that there is plenty of behind-the-scenes drama among the women who dress her.

While the First Lady has long been linked to boutique owner and stylist Ikram Goldman, it's now becoming clear that their relationship isn't as close as it used to be. Obama has a White House employee, 29-year-old personal assistant Meredith Koop, looking after her style, procuring her garments, and setting up arrangements with designers for custom-made pieces. To make it into a mini-soap opera, Koop started her career working at Goldman's boutique, Ikram, in Chicago and was dispatched to Washington when the First Lady took up residence in the White House. Now the student may have replaced her teacher.

No one is talking much about it, though. Michelle won't address the rumors and neither Goldman nor Koop will give interviews. Still, Jason Horowitz tries to get to the bottom of the situation in the Washington Post, but only finds a world that's as glamorous, secretive, and exclusive as the fashion industry itself

[RipSawyer]

Obviously Koop hates her boss.

[TxDas]

Perhaps the “Alien” emerging from her generous rump would be more appropriate than a precious pooch. An alien re-constituted from fat drenched short ribs and arugula.

[Liz]

Ikram's boutique.

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I guess Ikram canceled Mrs O's order for Bunmi Olaye’s warrior woman coat......

Bunmi Olaye’s warrior-like woman collection (pictured above). Inspired by the mysterious, men-only Leopard Masquerade cult of the Efik tribe in the Nigerian province of Calabar, mixed with references to the high-collars, tight waists and voluminous sleeves of the Victorian era The look plays with proportions, gorgeous colours, vibrant prints with strong shoulders and enhanced waists.

And it seems this designer is already mixing in the right circles. Last year she established her own label which now has a celebrity client list which includes Mel B (Spice Girl), Mischa Barton, Alesha Dixon and Estell.......and the WH called to order a coat.

A Nigerean native, Bunmi already seems to be making at least small waves. Her experience w/ Alexander McQueen is evident in her designs. Slated to show at Africa Fashion Week later this month, Bunmi was asked to explain her collection: "The collection explores the feeling of a warrior-like woman in power. " Even if she doesn't find herself a star in the international industry, there's no doubt that Bunmi'll find herself a rightful place in African fashion.

[OriginalChristian]

Is this meant to be a find Megan McCain activity?

[mountn man]

[Palladin]

That’s cold, man.

[Patsygirl]

Every time I’ve seen her hair look “Good”, I’d bet my bottom dollar that it’s a WIG!!!

[PennsylvaniaMom]

On some of the fun pages I visit (MOTUS for one), the term ‘wighat’ is used :)

[nascarnation]

Michelle is such a supporter of black culture.

I'm rather shocked she's not sporting a fro, aren't you?

[Hillarys Gate Cult]

I heard that her big belt fashion trend is now carrying over into the funeral industry.