Cuban-American Designer Isabel Toledo Created Michelle Obama’s Inaugural Outfit, Internet Commenters Think It Sucks

First lady Michelle Obama wore a dress and coat by Cuban-American designer Isabel Toledo for the swearing-in ceremony today.

The shimmering, yellowy-green shift dress and matching coat seemed to include a jacket as well, closed at the neck with a jeweled clasp. She paired the shoes, rather interestingly, with aqua heels. We, uh. Kind of adore it.

Toledo attended New York’s FIT and Parsons and has been designing under her name for about 20 years. She also worked for a time as the Creative Director for Anne Klein, overseeing a couple of collections before being let go. You might recall that Michelle chose another, different Cuban-American designer, Narciso Rodriguez, the night President Obama gave his victory speech.

Of course, equal to the First Lady’s sartorial choices are the creepy American public’s entitled and self-righteous reactions to it. Let’s start with the LA Times‘ blog:

Way to undermine, G. Over on The Huffington Post, the commenters were equal parts hateful drama-stirrers and fawning sycophants. “Walruswheedchick” used her comment to drive home the theme of a united, inclusive America:

She’s just trying to be nice to the minorities who designed the dress.

Meanwhile, “Brillig” gave us a lesson in diversity:

The color is maize, she looks like an American version of an African queen. Sorry she can’t wear apple blossom pink, pea dove grey, or blancmange beige, but she is wearing an ethno-appropriate outfit and celebrating her difference.

African-American queens are made of corn? Michelle, please advise. This is news to us. As is the concept of “ethno-appropriate” outfits.

Michelle Obama chooses Isabel Toledo for swearing-in ceremony [LA Times]

Michelle Obama’s Inauguration Dress Designed By Isabel Toledo [HuffPo]