Michelle Obama's Thom Browne inauguration dress based on men's tie

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Michelle Obama, who showed off a brand new set of chunky bangs for her birthday last week, is making increasingly fashion-forward choices.

According to the Washington Post, New York-based designer Thom Browne is the man behind first lady Michelle Obama's navy, checkered coat and dress for inauguration day ceremonies Monday.

Browne started a women's wear line in 2010, though he spent more than a decade as a menswear designer creating collections for outlets like Brooks Brothers and Moncler. According to The New York Times, Obama's dress was based on the fabric for a men's necktie.

“It’s overwhelming,” Browne told The New York Times of his chance to be part of American history. “It is one of those rare moments in someone’s career that you will always remember. There¹s not a word that can really describe it. It’s just amazing.”

"The fabric, taken from men’s neckwear, suggests a first lady who may be comfortable in designer fashion, but is also ready to get down to serious business," The New York Times' Eric Wilson said.

Not to be outshined by their mother, the first daughters wore pinkish-purple and blue ensembles -- Malia in J.Crew and Sasha in Kate Spade.

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