The Smithsonian’s National Design Awards luncheon usually takes place in July, but this year Michelle Obama, the host, is raising the profile of emerging New York designers and moving its original date up to September 13, smack in the middle of New York Fashion Week.

The new date has caused scheduling difficulties for some of the honorees. Women’s Wear Daily reports that Fashion Design winner Gilles Mendel changed the date of his runway show in order to attend the first lady's prestigious ceremony, while finalist Jason Wu, whose show is slated for September 9, and runner-up Prabal Gurung, who will present on September 10, won’t make it to the White House for lunch.

This year’s award winners and runner-ups will also be celebrated at a cocktail party on September 12 and Mrs. O has also initiated a mixer for teens and honorees to enjoy at The Teen Design Fair.

The shows must go on!

(Photo:  Chris Jackson/Getty Images)