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Laura Smalls catapulted out of relative obscurity onto the national scene last week when Michelle Obama wore not one, but two of her pieces to the DNC. Not bad for a rising designer!

Smalls had already snagged a spot on the New York Fashion Week calendar, upon the suggestion of none other than Mr. André Leon Talley (who attended her Spring 2013 show along with Miss Universe Leila Lopes). MObama wearing her frock is just the icing on an already delicious, multi layered cake.

Naturally, we were curious to see more from Smalls. Thank goodness we were invited to her Spring 2013 show at the Andaz hotel last night. The designer served up a collection of ladylike dresses, gowns, and suits with a saucy flare. From a sexy candy stripe peekaboo halter dresses to an ivory pantsuit with cheeky leopard printed back panel, it was easy to see why the First Lady was so attracted to Smalls’s designs.

We caught up with the designer after the show to chat about her big MObama moment–and what it means for the future of her label.