Every now and again when I am looking at Kate Middleton's sartorial triumphs I forget that the first lay-person to get this whole style thing so perfectly pitched was in fact the FLOTUS, Michelle Obama. Seldom putting a foot wrong, totally revolutionising how working women (particularly those in politics) dress and staying completely true to her own personal style, Michelle Obama is the real style icon for 2011. Just look at her Christmas holiday style.

This Comme des Garcons skirt is the prettiest Christmas-appropriate item of apparel that I have seen in a long time. Subtle, yet festive, it is gorgeous and totally on trend. Well played First Lady.

And check out this Sophie Theallet dress — white with the bold stripes — that she wore in Hawaii. So perfectly pitched for a dress-down but official event while on her hols. Just listen to the sound of fashion hats being tipped to her. Awesome.