When she’s not showing off her natural curls in all their fluffy glory, Tracee Ellis Ross gets quite creative with protective hairstyles. It’s not unusual to see the actor and Pattern Beauty founder wearing a sculptural updo or an intricate braided style, and every new look only seems to reaffirm her status as a beauty icon. Ross’ latest go at ultra-long box braids, however, might just take the cake — especially considering that she’s matching with the one and only Michelle Obama. Tracee Ellis Ross’ box braids ponytail served as the perfect complement to the former First Lady’s goddess braids, but certainly stands on its own as one of the star’s most gorgeous and glamorous updos yet.

Holiday gifts came early in the form of Ross and Obama gracing Instagram with a behind-the-scenes look at their recent speaking engagement together. The dynamic duo took the stage at San Francisco’s The Masonic to discuss Obama’s latest look, The Light We Carry. Both ladies looked absolutely fabulous in matching suits — Ross in a grey Gucci moment with studded details and Obama in dark green velour (and a top emblazoned with images of music legend — and Tracee’s mother — Diana Ross).

The real glamour, though, lay beyond the fashion — it’s all about their beauty looks. Ross opted for medium-sized braids pulled back into a glossy, hip-length ponytail courtesy of celebrity hairstylist Marcia Hamilton, with a natural makeup look done by Molly Greenwald. Obama wore…