I sat in the last row. The front lobby of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History looked different from the last time I visited. Business suits and Gucci bags replaced crying babies and khaki pants. The lobby had converted into a press room, with a large stage and four chairs. In walked the director of the museum, the secretary of the Smithsonian Institution and then designer Jason Wu.And then she walked in.
Michelle Obama, the first lady of the United States, wife to the president and the latest fashion icon since Jackie Kennedy.
I couldn't help but let out an inaudible gasp and grab the leg of the woman sitting next to me. "That's her," I whispered. "I can't believe it."
I was helping cover the presentation of the inaugural gown of the first lady. For those who have never visited the museum before, this is a common event. Each first lady donates at least one dress to the exhibition, which features dresses dating back to Martha Washington. The presentation ceremony is a big deal and how I ended up there, I'm not quite sure.
I was set to interview the curator of the exhibition when she offered to let me see the exhibit before the public. I entered with the intentions of writing a separate story and after a brief discussion with my editor, I was set to join the entertainment columnist at the event. And wow, I don't think I'll forget it. In as quick as an hour, I passed through security, chatted with the editor and sat through speeches by both the designer and the first lady. The gown she wore stood somber yet elegant to the side of the stage, a masterpiece. I could almost see the crystals stitched on the dress sparkle.
What a wonderful journalism day.
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