2008 witnessed Obama-mania, as designers like Sonia Rykiel, Rachel Roy, and Zac Posen fashioned stylish t-shirts and dresses supporting the election of our new President.

In 2009, however, Barack was eclipsed in the fashion department by his fabulously down to earth yet effortlessly chic wife, Michelle.

Michelle’s style from inauguration to the G20 summit and beyond has spawned lookbooks and blogs, and sent J.Crew’s stock skyward thanks to her propensity for their cashmere cardigans and pencil skirts. Most notable for her patronage of younger designers, she has worn everyone from Jason Wu to Thakoon to Sophie Theallat.

Let’s take a look at some of her best looks:

She dazzled at Barack’s inauguration in January, slipping on an Isabel Toledo coat, Nina Ricci sweater, and Jimmy Choo heels.

And celebrated that night in an ethereal Jason Wu creation with jewelry by Loree Rodkin.

As she began to settle into her White House life, she also began to settle into her personal style, which quickly became defined by pencil skirts, kitten heels, and cardigans set off by waist cinching belts.

Though she did diverge from the norm at times, choosing showstoppers like this vibrant dress by Stevie Wonder’s wife, Kai Milla…

Colorful creations like this dress by Jason Wu….

… Conversation pieces like this oft asked about Basso & Burke blouse…

…And saucy shifts like this ravishing red Moises de la Renta…

She generally kept it classy yet pretty in prim J.Crew separates and demure heels…

And playful shirtdresses like this number by Sophie Theallat.

Whether in floor length gowns or comfy sneakers, Michelle has brought a renewed flavor to the White House, and created the biggest fashion furor over a First Lady I’ve ever personally seen.

What do you think?

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