Even political matters find their way into fashion gossip. Since the election, Michelle Obama has stepped gracefully into the limelight, inspiring much discussion about her attire. There is an incredible energy to her, that is not only coming out in her fashion, but also in her work as the First Lady of the US.

Being in the limelight also has its drawbacks though. Recently, she has been criticized repeatedly for her choice to wear sleeveless dresses at recent functions. Maureen Dowd of the New York Times, wrote about a conversation she had with David Brooks, in which he commented, “She’s made her point. Now it’s time to put away Thunder and Lightning.”

Sandra McElwaine of The Daily Beast also suggested that Michelle Obama “cover up from time to time.”

But Robin Givhan of The New Yorker may have the key to all of this melodrama: “The arms imply vanity and power: two things that make many women uncomfortable and yet are fundamental to self-confidence.”

Perhaps we are simply re-adjusting our perceptions to accommodate a more forward and powerful woman as the First Lady. Considering the former First Lady, Laura Bush lacked a presence, when compared to Mrs. Obama. Laura Bush was representative of tradition and family wealth, often dressed in fashions by Caroline Herrera and Oscar de la Renta. Her role was quieter, and she was rarely seen as Mrs. Obama has been seen thus far.

Mrs. Obama on the other hand, is not afraid to stand out with chunky vintage jewelry. She has been praised for her taste in below-the-radar American designers, including Jason Wu and Tracy Feith. She is in the public eye almost constantly, whether it’s visiting schools and reading to kids, giving tours of the White House or helping out at the local soup kitchen.

Though not writing policies, Mrs. Obama is still acting as a fierce proponent of her husband, presenting to the world the image of an unwavering and devoted husband and wife team. And though part of her powerful platform has of course derived from being married to Mr. President, she is also quickly showing the world that she is influential in her own right.

Mrs. Obama’s real strength seems to be how well she is juggling her new roles. Fashion icon is only one of them. The First Lady mentioned in the interview with O magazine that she wants her girls to see a woman who takes care of herself. With the self-imposed title of “Mom-in-Chief,” her first priority is being a strong role model to her children, and in succeeding at this, she is becoming a powerful image of a woman for our country.

“She seems to be the voice of the newness of things, like a breath of fresh air almost. Her clothes are almost an emblem of that…it worked for Jackie Kennedy also,” said a female lawyer from San Francisco.

In response to the criticisms Mrs. Obama has drawn, she did recognize the need to dress down as a professional. Said the lawyer, “Yes, part of your role as a professional is not to stand out. But there’s a second role for the First Lady, and that is to present the image of the US.”

And she seems to be fulfilling this role beautifully. Despite the criticism she has received, her respect is demonstrated by her presence on the recent covers of Vogue, O magazine, People, and the current issue of The New Yorker.

Her daily fashions are also being noted on the blog Mrs-O.org. Here you will find continual updates on what she is wearing and who designed it. The website’s clear reference to Michelle Obama as Jackie O is further indicative of the level of admiration our country has for her. How’s that for promoting a positive image of the US?