Michelle Obama. Photo: Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images

Michelle Obama did not walk the E!-streamed red carpet before tonight’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner, so our first glimpse of her black Monique Lhuillier gown came later, once dinner started. And damn does she look good. This is a sexier look on her than usual, with a sheer lace panel over her decolletage and a molded bustier-style top. She very wisely chose a dress that photographs well while she’s sitting down, Schiaparelli-style, with elaborate beading along her collarbone and fitted cap sleeves that flatter her arms.

Other observations: her bangs have grown out considerably and are now long enough to be sideswept, which makes for a softer look than the original blunt fringe. Her tousled updo is a little prom-y, but it works well with the high-necked dress and shows off her sparkly black earrings, designed by Catherine Angiel. She’s wearing lots of smokey black eye makeup, which is rare. Isn’t it fun to see her pull out all the stops and look wholeheartedly glamorous?