President Barack & Michelle Obama Shut Down the Internet with Class (Photos)

Mrs. Obama wore a custom-made black, off-the-shoulder mermaid gown by Vera Wang Collection for the occasion. Fitted, with sheer sleeves, it skimmed the floor with its silk organza flounce. Mrs. Obama swept her long hair off to one side.

The first lady has worn Wang’s designs before, winning raves for the draped, strapless, electric blue column she donned at The Kennedy Center Honors in 2011.

China’s first lady Peng Liyuan, also a fashion icon, selected an embellished silk gown in a rich aquamarine hue. With three-quarter-length sleeves, it boasted intricate beading on its bodice and skirt.