Evelinda: As Judie and I watched the inauguration, I was filled with a special pride. It wasn't just that so many men looked handsome in their fedoras, which reminded me of a time when people dressed and behaved more respectfully. As a naturalized U.S. citizen, I get goose bumps when I see the peaceful transfer of power.

Judie: While many watched the orderly transfer of power, we studied the transfer of style from Laura Bush's conservative, understated, classic image to Michelle Obama's colorful, contemporary flair. Obama is more of a risk-taker when it comes to her wardrobe, and it will be interesting to watch her style evolve over the next four years.

Evelinda: Our verdict on their clothing choices for the swearing-in ceremony? We were disappointed. Obama chose a light yellow lace dress and matching coat ensemble by Isabel Toledo. The color was too summery and the sparkly fabric with a rhinestone collar was more conducive to a Palm Beach country club dinner dance than a formal, historic national event. We did, however, like the innovative touch of the olive green J. Crew gloves and Jimmy Choo patent pumps.

Instead of wearing one of her flattering signature suits, Laura Bush opted for a dull gray skirt and top with a matching coat that was swimming on her.

Judie: On the other hand, first daughters Sasha and Malia looked perfectly adorable in matching coats and scarves, one in blue, the other in pink, from the J. Crew Crewcuts collection. We hate to say it, but the girls were more appropriately dressed than their mom.

Evelinda: We watched in amusement as the hair of nearly every woman in the crowd was whipped about in the wind. Very few women wore hats. What a missed opportunity. Instead of depending on hairspray, they should have selected a rockin' headpiece. Take a gander at Aretha Franklin, who sang My Country 'Tis of Thee. Now, that's a hat!

Judie: We loved George H. W. Bush and wife Barbara's purple scarves. Power colors abounded. Sen. Hillary Clinton wore a stunning blue coat, and Obama and other male leaders sported red ties.

Evelinda: The first lady redeemed herself later in the evening at the 10 inaugural balls she was scheduled to attend. Obama made an unforgettable entrance in a white chiffon one-shoulder full-length white gown with a lace train. This confection was created by up-and-coming designer Jason Wu. The president, strikingly handsome in a black tuxedo, wore a white bow tie that referenced the color of his first lady's gown.

Judie: Wu, 26, is the designer darling of Hollywood, attracting the likes of Lucy Liu, January Jones and Rachel Zoe to his trunk shows. His evening gowns go for $3,000 to $6,000, according to the Wall Street Journal. The Taipei-born designer's career is sure to be launched by his association with Obama.

Evelinda: Kudos to Wu. He is the first designer we have seen who understands the particular requirements of Michelle Obama's figure, designing a dress that flattered her. Expect to see Obama wearing a lot more Jason Wu.

Contact Judie and Evelinda at stylematters.us