”So, here we are. It’s the dress,” Michelle Obama said to laughter at a formal presentation of her inaugural gown at the Smithsonian Museum of American History in Washington.
The First Lady joined the dress’ 27-year old designer Jason Wu for the ceremony , which welcomes the one-of-a-kind one shoulder ivory gown in The First Ladies at the Smithsonian exhibit.
“I have to say, to be honest, I am very honored and very humbled, but I have to say that I’m also a little embarrassed by all the fuss being made over my dress,” said Mrs. Obama. “Like many of you, I’m not used to people wanting to put things I’ve worn on display. So, all of this is a little odd, so forgive me.”
Here’s a transcript of Mrs. Obama’s speech:
“When I look at my gown — which I, in fact, have not seen since the day that I took it off — memories of that moment truly come rushing back. I remember that it was freezing cold in Washington. I know we all remember that. Yet, despite the frigid temperatures, hundreds of thousands of people flooded the Mall. Nothing was going to stop them from being part of history.
That day was so hectic for us. And I remember the inaugural parade and how the President and I stood and we waved until every last band walked by.
Then we only had less than an hour — ladies, if you can believe that — (laughter) — all of my friends left us in the stands, by the way. (Laughter.) “See ya, good luck!” (Laughter.) I was like, “Yeah, thanks.” (Laughter.) “We have to get ready for the ball.” (Laughter.) Like, “Yeah, so do I.” (Laughter.) So at the time I wasn’t really focused on what I was wearing that evening — I was really just trying to stay warm.
But I’ll never forget the moment that I slipped on this beautiful gown. I remember how just luscious I felt as the President and I were announced onto the stage for the first of many dances. And I’ll cherish that moment for the rest of my life.
Reprinted with permission
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