People’s latest cover subject, First Lady Michelle Obama, is likely trying to silence critics with her latest fashion choice. Women’s Wear Daily reported after the inauguration that many in the black community expressed disappointment that Mrs. Obama wasn’t supporting more African American designers.

But by wearing the Tracy Reese Guipure Lace Kimono Dress in Dried Azalea, $395, the first lady not only picks a perfectly pretty and appropriate People cover look, she supports a black designer on one of her most high-profile covers.

While the Vogue cover is surely more anticipated, certainly within the fashion community, the People cover is probably more visible and so a good choice to put those criticisms to rest. And a good place to spotlight an attainable yet stylish designer for her fans and fashion lemmings.

I love the color for Obama, and it may be one of the more feminine dresses we’ve seen her in. Luckily it combined girlish details with a grown up, flattering silhouette, unlike some other choices…