Who will design Michelle Obama’s second inaugural ball gown?

President Obama’s second inauguration this month won’t be quite as glitzy and glamorous as his first round of parties in 2009. After all, the economy is not so great, and it would look bad to get all-out lavish around Washington.

But that doesn’t mean we’re not getting dressed up! Well, I probably won’t be—but Mrs. O surely will.

Who will design the First Lady’s inaugural ball gown? It’s a secret kept under lock and key until the evening of January 21. We really only have an inkling of one thing: she is very likely to choose an American designer. I’ve got a few guesses of likely labels and silhouettes. Let’s take a look, and we can all grade my performance after the ball!

Elie Saab Fall Couture 2012, photographed by Giovanni Giannoni for Women’s Wear Daily

Anything that graces Michelle Obama’s shoulders will be more modest, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see her in glimmering gold, in contrast to 2009′s white embellished gown. This Elie Saab flows without poof, with elegance perfect for a First Lady.

Tadashi Shoji Spring 2013, photographed by Thomas Iannaccone for Women’s Wear Daily

If the boat-neck wouldn’t catch Mrs. O’s eye, the cobalt skirt would. Can’t you just picture the First Lady wearing this Tadashi Shoji gown in red or blue? It’s patriotic and pretty.

Michael Kors Pre-Fall 2013, photographed by John Aquino for Women’s Wear Daily

Will the First Lady tone it down for this second shindig? She’d never wear black to dance inauguration night away, but I can see this Michael Kors dress in navy, maroon (nay, oxblood), or violet. It’s demure, but still regal.

Christian Siriano Spring 2013, photographed by Robert Mitra for Women’s Wear Daily

Whatever Michelle Obama chooses, it’s sure to be both formal and functional. I love the contrast in this Christian Siriano gown, between the tee-style top and the shimmering skirt. Is there a chance that Mrs. O might choose this blossoming designer from our region? We’ll have to wait and see!

Who do you think the First Lady will wear on the dance floor?

My also-possible list of designers: Prabal Gurung, Carolina Herrera, Jason Wu (Again?! Maybe!), Oscar de la Renta. These would for-sure be custom, never-seen-before gowns.

P.S. Check out the Smithsonian’s video of Mrs. Obama’s first gown being prepared for exhibit. It’s neat to see how much work goes into preserving these fancy historic gowns!