Like Maria Pinto, the Chicago-based designer whose trunk shows have played annually to standing room only crowds at Dream Weaver on St. Armands Circle and will do so on January 22 and 23 -- right after the inauguration. What timing! Michelle Obama wore Pinto’s clothes way before the campaign began, and Pinto may well be in the running. Dream Weaver’s founder Joan McKeon says the collection is a hit in Sarasota because it’s the essence of urban chic. “Our customers get it [urban chic]: they’re sophisticated women who travel – we don’t sell to kids,” McKeon explained.

Believe me—I searched all over town for the ballerina flats Michelle had been photographed wearing during her campaign stomp. They’re by Lanvin and sell for about $500. Even with the publicity push, Allison Craig Scanlan of Addison Craig says she won’t be carrying the shoes because even the wealthiest Sarasota customers aren’t willing to go that high for flats in this economy.

Speaking of the economy, Obama’s politically correct fashion sources include some mid-priced brands which also garnered a lot of attention during the campaign. The White House/Black Market on St. Armands Circle has one of the now-notorious Donna Ricco black and white print sundresses Michelle wore on "The View" -- but assured me they will track down sizes on request at stores. The dress is still available on the store’s Web site for $148. And yes, Sarasota’s fashionistas did call the store after Michelle revealed her source on TV.