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Chicago Retailer Guards First Lady's Closet

Some frown on Ikram Goldman picking Michelle's designers

By Ambreen Ali,  Newser User

Posted Feb 12, 2009 10:36 AM CST

(Newser) – Michelle Obama may have good fashion sense, but it's Ikram Goldman who holds the lock and key to the first lady's closet, reports the New York Times in a look at their unusual relationship. The Chicago boutique owner ultimately selected four designers—each featured in her store—for the inauguration, causing some to frown on the exclusivity Goldman enjoys, the fact that she's not a stylist by trade, and her ability to profit from the arrangement.

"It is strange to think that the wife of the leader of the free world would choose clothes from only one store, when there is a wealth of clothes out there, including me," says designer Arnold Scassi, who has dressed first ladies since Mamie Eisenhower. He couldn't recall another time when designers didn't have direct access to the White House.

Some designers say they could have done much better than Obama's white inaugural ball gown, but that Goldman kept them from trying.
Some designers say they could have done much better than Obama's white inaugural ball gown, but that Goldman kept them from trying.   (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
Jason Wu is among the designers Goldman has propelled to the top by selecting his designs for Obama's closet.
Jason Wu is among the designers Goldman has propelled to the top by selecting his designs for Obama's closet.   (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
Oscar de la Renta submitted a dozen designs for Goldman's consideration pre-inauguration, but never heard another word from her office.
Oscar de la Renta submitted a dozen designs for Goldman's consideration pre-inauguration, but "never heard another word" from her office.   (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
Obama's press secretary says the first lady doesn't rely exclusively on Goldman. She shops at J. Crew and Gap, too.
Obama's press secretary says the first lady doesn't rely exclusively on Goldman. She shops at J. Crew and Gap, too.   (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, FILE)
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COMMENTS
Showing 1 of 1 comment
Guest
Feb 12, 2009 8:04 PM CST
But Designers ALWAYS have access to the First Lady.... Not anymore, sucker/

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