Maria Pinto: Dress Has Meaning When You Put It On

Designer Maria Pinto described Michelle Obama as a natural and sophisticated woman, which is reflected on her dress style.

Designer Maria Pinto, who found herself in the limelight after Michelle Obama jumped into her design, revealed the secret of a good dress:

- I need to be able to put things on my body. When you put something on yourself and feel, you get a sense of being inside the garment - you get a sense of the shoulder, sleeve or volume of the skirt. It informs where you go next - Pinto told Associated Press.

Her classic, elegant cuts fitted the first lady perfectly, but the 51-year-old designer remembers that when she would make a garment in orange or pink, her sister would criticise her.

- I've always been interested in art, and fashion and design are an extension of that. I'm not blurring the line with 'art-to-wear,' but it's about respecting the creative process - Pinto said.

The designer says her favourite client Michelle Obama reflects a natural look and sophistication, which is evident in her dress style.

-  But what I love most is that at the foundation of this fabulous woman is an unbelievable brilliance and eloquence coupled by the grace and beauty of a dancer - Pinto told Associated Press, commenting on the First Lady of America.