Michelle Obama reveals her experiences with media scrutiny and fashion choices during her time as First Lady in her latest book, “Michelle Obama Style.” In this new documentary, the former First Lady explores her impact on our culture’s fixation with her exposed upper appendages. She feels this focus “otherized” her, almost always taking precedence over her achievements and real self.
While she lived in the White House, Michelle Obama faced unprecedented criticism for her sartorial selections. Too many to count, but we’ll start with a heavy focus on her beloved sleeveless sheaths. Within a week, she had already modeled four of her seven sleeveless looks. Among them was a stunning pink dress that appeared on the cover of Vogue. This decision embraced her quirky individual sense of style. It further sparked necessary conversations on representation and the immense pressures on all women who live publicly.
As first lady through the Great Recession, Michelle Obama’s wardrobe reflected that shift, favoring a mix of luxury and budget-friendly pieces. Recognized for her “high-low” style, her patronage of new talent—especially those of Black, Asian and Latina descent—was remarkable. Her stylist, Meredith Koop, and various designers contributed insights into how they navigated the challenges of dressing a First Lady.
Michelle Obama’s fashion style, as with nearly every first lady, was heavily critiqued. Headlines such as “Up In Arms” and the label “[Sleevegate]” revealed the media’s fixation over her fashion choices. They totally eclipsed her big, important initiatives. This double bind is one reason why Michelle Obama was forced to address the stereotype of the “angry Black woman.”
“I can’t remember the first instance I was described as ‘angry’ by the press, only that it was often enough that articles and academic papers have since been written about the phenomenon,” – Michelle Obama
In her memoir, she contemplates the ways in which this stereotype was used as a weapon against her. We’re inspired by Jill’s story about working with her communications team. At the same time, they advised her not to be coy with her tone and facial expressions, lest they be misinterpreted.
“I’d proven to be an impactful solo orator… I was shocked when our communications team shared notes, rather sheepishly, that I should be careful of my tone and facial expressions,” – Michelle Obama
In a climate of intense scrutiny, Michelle Obama put a premium on fashion as a means to create visibility and representation. She wanted to show her heritage through her decor and she just wanted to open up this space in a way that was welcoming.
“I knew that I had to define my own fashion philosophy… I wanted to invite people in: for an embrace, or a meaningful conversation,” – Michelle Obama
Her impact on style extended well past her sartorial decisions. She was very hands on with creating opportunities for these emerging designers by featuring their collections at major industry events. For the night, she donned a jaw-dropping white silk chiffon one-shoulder gown created by Jason Wu. Today, her image in that gown hangs proudly at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, honoring her amazing contribution to fashion and culture.
Though she began by getting knocked off her message, Michelle Obama refused to waiver on her quest for authenticity. She moved through her time as First Lady with poise, but crashed through racial and gender barriers attached to that role. Her second official White House portrait hangs in the East Room today, a tribute to her legacy.
“As First Lady, you’re put on a de facto pedestal… representing the notion of womanhood itself,” – Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama’s reflections on her journey highlight not only the trials she encountered but the strength she derived from them. Through her influence she elevates the importance of self-definition and authenticity. In an environment that seeks to marginalize and silence women, especially women of color, her call resonated.
“Barack and I were being portrayed as Black people who didn’t understand the ‘rules’ of the rarefied world we had found ourselves in,” – Michelle Obama
The story told throughout “Michelle Obama Style” illustrates just how powerful the intersection of fashion, identity, and politics can be. By staying true to her aesthetic and pushing for greater representation, she created a niche for herself that defied cultural conventions.