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.