The dress registry, so Michelle Obama and Oprah won't wear the same gown

While it's beyond doubtful that Michelle Obama or Oprah would show up at the inauguration festivities in the same frock, a website called Dressregistry.com is determined to save other attendees from such sartorial similarities. The most memorable case of dress distress happened in 2006, when Laura Bush arrived at the Kennedy Center bash to see her red Oscar de la Renta gown on three other guests. (She promptly rushed off and changed into a black dress.)

The dress registry offers a list of 2009 nationwide inaugural events and fetes -- including the official Commander in Chief ball -- and the dresses that are already being worn by guests, who have submitted their outfits. Right now, there are picks that range from a formal Amsale blue gown to a cocktail-length black H&M dress. Some have pictures registered too.

The idea is actually smart, as formal stock won't be abundant after the holidays in department stores or boutiques. Then again, is it really such a crime for two women to wear the same dress? The idea of running home to change sounds petty in light of the grandiosity of the occasion. I would opt for a vintage YSL tuxedo -- right -- and wink at the men for mirroring my look.

-- Monica Corcoran

Photos: Getty Images

Comments

[JJ]

I could care less what Mrs. Obama wears. First Lady Laura Bush did not need Designers, she will be the last of THE MOST BEAUTIFUL FIRST LADIES, GRACIOUS AND INDEED A LADY!!! GOOD LUCK TO THE FIRST LADY LAURA BUSH, GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR HUSBAND AND YOUR DAUGHTERS. SAD TO SEE YOU GO.
jj

[Nancy]

Laura Bush can't win for losing. She's "petty" for changing her dress, but what ridicule would you heap on her if she hadn't?

[JEAN]

Michelle Obama will look absolutely beautiful in whatever gown she chooses. Her taste is spectacular, and it is wonderful to have someone with her sense of style in the White House. Laura Bush was DOWDY! Good riddance to the entire Bush family-especially her horrible husband who just about ruined this country. Thank God they will be gone in a few short weeks--not nearly short enough. We are blessed indeed to have President Obama and his beautiful classy family. What a welcome change for America and the world!

[Tony]

JJ is sad to see the Bushs go. . . I'm sorry but I cannot be respectful to someone that makes that statement. George Bush is a dumb man that nearly drove the USA into the ground. He himself admits that he's not very bright. It amazes me that there are still people out there that embrace Dubya, even in his ignorance. I give Laura ALOT of credit for sticking by him.