While Michelle Obama’s inaugural wardrobe was debated on blogs and in office talk Wednesday, no one could deny that her unconventional choices have brought a much-needed jolt to the beleaguered fashion industry.

Her husband promised change. On the fashion front, she delivered.

Former first ladies Laura Bush and Hillary Clinton picked Oscar de la Renta to create their inaugural gowns, and it’s a safe bet the revered, old-school designer would have been at the top of Cindy McCain’s list had her husband been elected president. But in lieu of American powerhouses who might have also included Donna Karan or Ralph Lauren, Obama chose fresh new faces.

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