Recap Rewind: Isabel Toledo, Jason Wu Come to D.C.

Whether or not you believe Michelle Obama is a fashion force to be reckoned with, there’s no denying she’s helped elevate several designers from industry darlings to veritable household names. Two of her most prominent dressmakers, Isabel Toledo and Jason Wu (she of the lemongrass inaugural day sheath, he of the white inauguration gown), were in town this month to showcase their latest looks.

First up was Isabel Toledo’s special showcase at the Swiss Residence (above), an exclusive cocktail fete where the Cuban-American designer teamed up with Swiss lace company Forster Rohner (who also crafted the effervescent yellowy-green material of Mrs. Obama’s iconic inaugural ensemble) for a collection of poufed party skirts, sculptural sheaths and metallic dresses. (Also of note: The gold cap-toed pumps, seemingly created by using a metallic marker on basic black shoes. DIYers, take note.)

Vogue’s Sally Singer was among those who crowded around the glass box (above) that served as a modified runway and had been handpainted by Isabel and her husband and creative partner, artist Ruben Toledo, the day before. A few days later, the team at Nordstrom — a sponsor of the event — sent around time-released snaps of the duo working on the elaborated hand-painted set from 9am until after midnight (see below). The finished stage was almost as amazing as the clothes — almost.

The D.C. fashion set (us included) barely had time to rest: The next night was Jason Wu’s turn in the spotlight with a trunk show of spring designs at Neiman Marcus Chevy Chase. The adorable (and adorably young, at just 26) designer shuttled down via Amtrak for the evening (swapping his traveling clothes for a crisp button-down and blazer in the fitting area that served as his “green room”) and amiably mingled with shoppers for several hours.

Neiman’s Chevy Chase now carries Wu exclusively for the area and loaded their second floor gathering space with his tailored, ladylike collection, which included dresses bedecked in contrasting stitching and bright floral patterns created from x-rays of botanical plants (below).

Like the Toledo event, there was no sign of Mrs. O — although we imagine that a pop-in by the first lady would’ve unfairly shifted the spotlight off of the designers and their amazing creations. There’s no rush: Given the excited reception both designers received, we doubt it’s their last time in D.C. anytime soon. —Betsy Lowther