Filed under: Design, etc
If only the Oval Office's decor could take a cue from the First Lady's vibrant fashion sense.Like an episode of a renegade home makeover show, President Obama's executive lair received a design-team ambush during his recent Martha's Vineyard vacation. The newly revamped Oval Office boasts several American-made features, including a customized wool rug from Grand Rapids, Mich., fresh custom-mixed Benjamin Moore paint, comfy new and reupholstered woven furniture and striped wallpaper handmade in Amagansett, NY. The only thing missing: First Lady Michelle Obama's stylish touch.
A look at the newly renovated Oval Office. Photo: Brendan Smialowski, MCT
In his MSNBC interview, press secretary Robert Gibbs described resident White House designer Michael Smith's primarily neutral-toned renovations as "very modest." The America flag (not seen above) adds a vibrant pop of color to the space while keeping a patriotic focus. Yet it's hard not to wonder what a dose of Michelle's signature fashion sense could do for the Oval Office. Beyond visual appeal, could her vibrant style add a jolt of energy to this ultra-reserved power room? Well, we can dream.
In the all-American spirit of keeping things fresh, fashion-forward and fun, we'd like to offer a few humble decorating suggestions inspired by Michelle's amazing wardrobe. While we doubt President Obama would select whimsical floral décor on his own, we like to think these suggestions reflect what could be if we had the opportunity to make over the Oval Office -- ShelterPop-style.
Left: AFP/Getty Images. Right: (clockwise from top left) Shibori linen pillow by Kevin O'Brien; Fireworks pillow at Anthropologie; Terai folding chair at Anthropologie; Cranberry barrel vase by Caleb Siemon; Momeni area rug at Macy's.
The dress Michelle Obama wore for her arrival at the Louis Armstrong Airport in New Orleans, LA featured one of her signature styles: floral in smart, inspired colors detailed with just a touch of ombré. An Oval Office makeover based on this look might mix fresh flowered patterns in clever hues with a matching sunset finish.
Left: AFP/Getty Images. Right: (clockwise from top left): Anthropologie except rug: Louise settee; Felt rug by Peace Industry; Calandria armchair; Tall Pinched vase; Deep Tropic tiebacks.
This dress adds a little romance to Michelle's typically graphic florals -- evoking a vibrant but water-washed bouquet. An Oval Office makeover inspired by this look might utilize cool shades and whimsical details to create a sensitive but strong look.
Left: AP. Right: (clockwise from top left) Waldots wallpaper at Ferm Living; Linked Circles hurricane at West Elm; Totem pillow cover at West Elm; Eva Zeisel coffee table at Design Within Reach; Wood & Resin boxes at West Elm.
Eye-Grabbing Graphic
As bold and exciting as the First Lady herself, this one-shouldered Jean-Paul Gaultier stunner blends a no-nonsense print with a strong feminine shoulder detail. A stack of earth-toned bangles add a beautiful, effortless charm. Inspired by this look, Michelle Obama's Oval Office makeover might mix bold prints with clever graphics and just a flash of earthy textures.
Well, what do you think? Do you prefer the more basic version or our Michelle-inspired looks?
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