Michelle Obama chose a rather "mother of the bride" pale gold lace shift dress and matching coat designed by Cuban-born Isabel Toledo for her husband Barack Obama's swearing-in ceremony.

Later she dazzled in a white floor-length ivory silk chiffon one-shouldered gown by 26-year-old Taiwan-born designer Jason Wu for the ten inauguration balls the couple attended on Tuesday night.

She accessorised the gown - which was appliquéd with Swarovski crystal rhinestones and silver embroidery - with diamond drop earrings, bracelets and a ring by jeweller to the stars, Loree Rodkin, who also makes pieces for Madonna and Sir Elton John.

Mrs Obama divided fashionistas' opinions when she chose a flame red and black outfit by Narciso Rodriguez on election night.

Last October, she wore a co-ordinated yellow outfit for her appearance on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

And she wore a floral dress by Thakoon Panichgul, originally from Thailand, the evening Mr Obama accepted the Democratic nomination for president.

Mrs Obama is keen to support young, diverse talent and continues a tradition of wearing American designers who hail from other countries.