With all eyes watching, the most influential fashionistas on the globe have the ability to boost economies, crash shopping sites, and kick-start global trends – all with one wardrobe choice. The following women have more in common than political clout, however. They have all made Vanity Fair‘s International Best Dressed List (some three times). Take a look at the most powerful First Ladies, former First Ladies, and royalty in the fashion world.
#1 – Michelle Obama
Known as a woman of style and class, Michelle Obama has had an impact on the American fashion industry since before Barack’s first day in office. A study conducted by Professor David Yermack of New York University’s Stern School of Business, and published in Harvard Business Review, examined the influence Michelle has on the fashion industry. Yermack looked at the First Lady’s outfits at 189 appearances where she wore 29 different labels, including Calvin Klein, Nina Ricci, and Gap. The study found that a single appearance by the First Lady generated an average of $14 million in revenue for the brand worn. In October 2008, when Michelle wore J. Crew on The Tonight Show, the clothing company’s stock increased in value by 25% over the next three days. Yermack’s study concluded that Michelle’s total impact on the fashion industry over approximately one year was $2.7 billion. Famous for her toned arms, full skirts, and high waist belts, the First Lady has been applauded for supporting a diverse range of designers. In the words of Vogue editor Anna Wintour: “She’s very choose-your-own-style. She never looks like the clothes are wearing her.”
#2 – Kate Middleton
In 2011, Kate Middleton married Prince William, becoming the Duchess of Cambridge and solidifying her role as worldwide style icon for decades to come. It is estimated that Kate has already boosted the British fashion industry by over $1 billion. According to Forbes, British label Reiss experienced a profit increase from $6.7 million in 2010 to $13.2 million in 2011, after Kate wore their dress in her official engagement photo and on tour in Canada. Much like Princess Diana, Kate’s every move is scrutinized in the media. U.K. Vogue’s February 2013 issue includes statistics analyzing 100 of her outfits. Vogue claims Kate’s look can be categorized as “international sleek.” Her favorite color is blue, worn on 24% of occasions. Most of her outfits come from LK Bennett, with Alexander McQueen coming in second. Following the royal engagement announcement in 2011, a blog called What Kate Wore was launched, catering to those seeking to emulate and provide commentary on her fashion choices. Now, there’s an app for that. As she forges into maternity wear, expect the Duchess of Cambridge to continue setting global trends.
#3 – Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al Missned
Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al Missned is not only the wife of the Emir of Qatar, but a resounding force in the world of politics, fashion, and economics. Known for her impeccable style, she frequently shows off strong silhouettes, bold colors, belts, and buttons. Sheikha Mozah is famous for mixing modesty with high fashion and has been one of the most influential style icons in the Arab world for decades. In 2012, the Qatari Royal family purchased fashion house Valentino for £550 million. 2012 also revealed Sheikah Mozah as the investor behind a £27 million stake in luxury handbag and accessory manufacturer Anya Hindmarch. The Royal family of Qatar already owned London’s Harrods department store, a £1.5 billion purchase. In addition to fashion endeavors, Sheikha Mozah holds several active positions in the government of Qatar and was listed at number 74 on Forbes‘ 100 Most Powerful Women list.
#4 – Carla Bruni-Sarkozy
Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, a supermodel, singer, and actress, married French President Nicolas Sarkozy in 2008, and was First Lady of France until May 2012. Upon marriage, she embraced her new role with sophisticated elegance as enthralled fans inspected her every style move. No stranger to the industry, the French-Italian beauty signed her first modeling contract as a teen in 1987 and became one of the 20 highest-paid models in the world. By the early ‘90s she was strutting the runway in shows for Christian Dior, Givenchy, Christian Lacroix, Karl Lagerfeld, Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, and Versace. Do not expect to catch this fashionista in brights or patterns. In fact, during her time as First Lady, Carla dressed exclusively in Dior. She was known to channel a refined glamour and was routinely compared to Jackie Onassis Kennedy – earning this power player a spot among the best dressed First Ladies.
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