An up-and-coming Asian designer has taken a Cumbrian fabric from the streets of Carlisle to the wardrobe of one of the world’s most influential women.  And it was yet another coup for Linton Tweeds, based on Shaddongate, as Michelle Obama stepped out in a white and black Linton tweed coat, specially created by Thai designer Thakoon.

The First Lady followed in the footsteps of fashion icon Victoria Beckham, who used a black Linton tweed with rubber yarn in her latest designer collection.  Designers have been battling to dress Mrs Obama since her husband, US President Barack Obama, took on the most powerful job in the world back in January.

Thakoon Panichgul, who unveiled his first Thakoon collection back in

2004, is growing in popularity with a high-powered fanbase that includes Mrs Obama alongside American actresses Demi Moore and Sarah Jessica Parker.

He ordered two Linton fabrics last year, a white tweed – used for Mrs Obama’s coat – and a pink tweed fabric, which was used to create a suit for the First Lady’s mother.Marian Robinson showcased the pink two-piece at her son-in-law’s inauguration.