Michelle Obama is no fashion wuss. Even when she must exercise restraint, she still finds a way to pep it up. Case in point--check out the Erickson Beamon brooch she wore at the DNC with that gorgeous Maria Pinto sheath. Perfection!

Erickson Beamon designs aren't only fit for First Ladies. Thanks to Target's 'Design for All' philosophy, the rest of us can get our grubby little mitts on them for a fraction of retail. Michelle's piece is most likely made from precious stones and retails for $500+. It's an Erickson Beamon classic shape and the Target version ($29.99) comes packaged as a necklace with colorful faux stones. I'm turning mine into a brooch -- there's a large loop on the back, so you can buy a pin backing at any craft store (Joanne Fabrics, Michael's, etc.). Also available in black stones (on the same gold backing), neither of these is available online (ships in 2-6 weeks), but there are a few trickling into stores.

Another colorful piece I love is the chunky charm and flower necklace ($39.99). It looks heavy, but thanks to the plastic links in the faux wood chain, it only weighs 4.6 oz. I'm also seeing some multi-use possibilities with this one...especially for the cute Faberge-esque charms. This one also ships in 2-6 weeks, with a few available in stores.

The Blue Seed Bead Fish Pendant doesn't show well on the website, but it's one of the first pieces I noticed on the in-store display. This is a lightweight, but huge (5.75" x 2") statement piece that looks handcrafted and much more expensive than the $39.99 price tag. The chain is unusual and expensive-looking as well. Erickson Beamon also did a lobster version of this piece, but since I'm not heading to the Vineyard any time soon, I'm sticking with the Fish. (-:

**eBay only lets me upload a few photos.  For more photos (including close-ups), check out my blog "DogMom's Dish" (February 21).  To access, click on the dog dish icon on the left hand side of my About Me page.  There's also a link on that page for a $5 off Target coupon + Free Shipping!**