The Effortless Style of Michelle O

Michelle Obama has taken the nation by storm. Heck, she's taken the whole world by storm too! Whether you're a left-winger or lean to the right doesn't seem to make a bit of difference when appreciating Michelle's easy elegance and down to earth syle. What Not to Wear's Clinton Kelly sums it up by saying, "Her style has a real dignity to it without seeming prudish, frumpy or out of touch. She seems to know she has a good body, but also knows enough not to show the public too much of it."

The recently released Michelle Style: Celebrating the First Lady of Fashion by Mandi Norwood is a lovely book that spotlights Mrs. Obama's unique charm and style and shows us how she gracefully and effortlessly blends discount with designer, and does it with panache. A real mom who has a busy life with two kids as well as being the First Lady, Michelle Obama knows how to dress for all occasions. Her choice of shoes is perfect for her tall, lithe figure - she wears flats or kitten heels, even with dresses - and they look great. She knows what's good about her and she plays it up. She knows her best cuts and her best colors and is not afraid to try something new.

The book highlights a few of Michelle's fashion rules, such as:

Skirt hems should be straight and parallel to the floor.

Dress to fit the widest parts of your body.

Seams should lie straight and flush against your body.

Fitted does not mean tight. You want skimming, not clinging.

If you can see the outline of any undergarments, it's a poor fit.

If in doubt, go half a size bigger.

Michelle clearly has a realistic grasp on her own personal style and is someone we can all learn a few tips from.