The Inauguration Day fashion spectacular has begun.

Michelle Obama has just stepped out of her car ahead of President Barack Obama’s official, public swearing-in ceremony on the steps of the US Capitol, wearing a blue-checked coat and dress by Thom Browne. The design was apparently inspired by a man's tie. She has accessorised the outfit with a J.Crew belt and shoes and a necklace by Cathy Waterman.

While it’s doubtlessly the gown which Michelle chooses to wear to the Inaugural Ball tonight that will garner the most international headlines, it’s this daytime option that will be enshrined in US history because at the end of the Inaugural festivities, the first lady's outfit and accompanying accessories will go to the National Archives.

Daughter Malia – who wore H&M to the President’s private swearing-in this weekend – continues her high street streak in J.Crew, while her younger sibling Sacha has opted for a purple Kate Spade coat and dress.

Michelle has won plaudits for the navy Reed Krakoff ensemble she wore to the private swearing-in, in addition to the numerous beauty-world nods for her on-trend new fringe.

Watch Obama’s Inauguration as it happens with ELLE here and tweet us your thoughts @ELLEuk.

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