Michelle Obama first wore a Toledo design in June 2008, for an appearance at a New York City fashion world fundraiser. She was introduced to Toledo's work through Ikram, a store in Chicago, Illinois, founded by Ikram Goldman. Toledo designed a lemongrass yellow, wool, and lace shift dress with matching overcoat, which the First Lady selected to wear at the first inauguration of Barack Obama, on January 20, 2009.