Political Style

Everyone’s talking about how Barack Obama’s daughters stole the show at the DNC this week, but we were captivated by his wife Michelle’s irresistible sense of style.

Her cerulean-blue dress was tasteful, incredibly elegant and flattering, and Michelle accentuated it perfectly with a turquoise star at the point of her V-neck. The dress was made by no other than Chicago’s very own Maria Pinto, whose designs are worn often by Michelle.

Fashion media definitely approved of the dress; raves from L.A. Times and CBS News were just part of the ongoing discussion of Michelle’s impeccable fashion choices. Check out photos to judge for yourself.
-Grace Bahk

Maria Pinto Celebrates New Store With Fête

Maria Pinto celebrated the opening of her first and only premium clothing and jewelry boutique last night Tuesday, August 12^th. All designs are created by Maria, with production help by her staff of about twenty, and all made in the United States.Earthy, stone-colored walls were adorned with Maria’s new fall collection. Divine gowns, coats, jackets, skirts, and wraps all made of the finest fabrics dazzled the party guests. Each piece was unique and stunning due to the handsome fabric or exquisite use of beading, sequins, and feathers. The jewelry case was equally amazing, stocked with precious or semi-precious pieces that had all been hand selected by Maria Pinto herself. Maria Pinto boutique also offers beautiful sweaters by Mai, Wolford, and Armand Diradourian, and belts by Fahrenheit by Connie Bates.
Maria Pinto graciously greeted all her guests and looked spectacular in her strapless, white-sequined and feathered party dress. When asked what her clothing represents Maria cheerfully responded “My clothing is for fabulous, confident, spirited women.” A statement Maria creates and exudes herself by – obvious to anyone who meets this joy of a designer. Pinto invited guests not only to her boutique, but allowed all guests to check out her design studio upstairs where platters of more cocktails could be found.

Maria Pinto

Before even opening a boutique, Maria Pinto had already established herself a firm clientele, designing for Chicago socialites and celebrities like Michelle Obama and Oprah. Her boutique is sure to please these dedicated followers as well as attracting new customers. Maria Pinto is sharing her shining moment with the Women’s Board of the Museum of Contemporary Art. The boutique will donate 15% of proceeds to the Women’s Board of the Museum of Contemporary Art and its support of the Family Education Initiation through Saturday, August 16^th. Stay tuned for our video interview with Maria!
-Jackie Medler

Photos by Alyssa Blanchard for Factio Media