Alejandro Ingelmo Reflects On Cuban Heritage As Obama’s Historic Visit Continues

When President Obama and his family touched down in Cuba on Sunday, the moment was particularly significant for luxury designer Alejandro Ingelmo.

Ingelmo, whose parents and grandparents hail from the country, said that stronger ties between the U.S. and Cuba is a major step — although the situation remains complicated.

“I definitely think [things are heading] in the right direction,” said Ingelmo from Los Angeles, where he has been living for the past nine months. “There’s still mixed feelings among the Cubans in Miami. I respect what happened, the history and the past. My grandfather had a shoe factory and had things taken away from him. But the only way to improve the country is to open it up. …I see both sides of it. Cuba is a beautiful country.”

Meanwhile, all eyes are on the President and First Lady this evening as they attend a special State Dinner this evening as part of their visit.

What shoe would Ingelmo outfit the First Lady in? “Definitely my Boomerang sandal. It’s a beautiful shoe. I’ve been doing it for years, and a sexy, caged sandal is perfect for the warm weather.”

Meanwhile, the first daughters have kept their style casual so far on the trip. After their arrival on Sunday, Malia, 17, wore a printed floral dress and all-white lace-up sneakers. Sister Sasha, 14, went with a $385 Shoshanna fit-and-flare dress with standout stitching and black and white slip-on sneakers. (The kicks were fitting for the rainy day.)