Michelle Obama Tops French Elle's Best-Dressed List

French mag honors Obama -- not Carla Bruni -- with "Political Chic" award

So much for loyalty, France.

French mag and couture Bible Elle magazine honored Yank Michelle Obama with first place in the category of "political chic" women in its annual Best Dressed list released this week, proclaiming Obama is more stylish than her French counterpart Carla Bruni.

Obama bested Bruni, who came in second on the list, her second time around with the silver medal: last year, the French first lady and wife of President Nicolas Sarkozy lost to Asma Assad, the Syrian president's wife.

Obama and Bruni have been compared in the media for their twin fashion senses and political sensibilities -- both are expanding the role of first lady in their respective nations and both are considered style icons.

Fashion critics have praised Obama for her mixes of high and low-cost clothing choices as well as her bold statements -- including the infamous sleeveless top that had some questioning her right to bare arms. The first lady notoriously chose a simple black-and-white off the rack dress during her husband's presidential campaign that had women everywhere rushing to pick up a copy of their own from the local mall.

Other winners in French Elle's annual Best Dressed list were Tilda Swinton, who picked up honors in the "Stylista" category, "Bombshell" winner Scarlett Johansson, and "Red Carpet" champion Penelope Cruz.

Contact Us