First Lady and Fashion Icon Michelle Obama Puts Chicago Style Scene on the Map

First Lady Michelle Obama

In a city known for Midwest simplicity, classic sophistication and urban chic are beginning to thrive. Chicago is just coming into its own as a fashion hub, and Michelle Obama has been a significant help in putting it on the map.

One of the most fashion-forward first lady’s the white house has seen in some time, Michelle Obama has brought the elegant sophistication of the Midwest along with the urban style of Chicago to Washington DC. The first lady’s wardrobe, peppered with pieces by Chi-town designers such Mario Pinto and Ikram Goldman, has been routinely praised for its age appropriate trendiness and casual professionalism.

Chicago’s style scene has been on the rise for some time now, but the media focus on Michelle Obama’s wardrobe has sped its growth as a fashion center. Some of Chicago’s most notable fashion trends are its winter weather accessories, as the city is known for bitter temps and harsh winds throughout much of the year.

This winter’s trends combined fashion with practicality and featured knee-length jackets and ear-covering hats such as the trapper hat, or tassel hat. This coming season be on the lookout for lots of leather, tall boots, and of course, lots of layering – so that you can shed your stylish cold weather coats and hats when you arrive at your destination.

Other practical Chi-town fashion accessories that are always in style include a good scarf or shawl. Scarves made out of alpaca wool offer excellent warmth and distinct comfort. Infinity scarves, which were wildly popular in 2009, are another common choice for Chicago’s urbanites.

For those visiting Chicago this summer, be sure to bring along some pinky-red pieces -  Honeysuckle Pink is 2011’s Pantone color of the year, and leave the costume jewelry at home. Simple and classic diamond studs are on trend this season.

For an in-person glimpse of Chicago’s most current fashions, and the inside scoop on the first lady’s style, visit Ikram, Michelle Obama’s favorite fashion boutique on North Street in downtown Chicago.