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The Look
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Beautifully illustrated with more than 200 photographs, including never-before-seen images, The Look is a stunning journey through Michelle Obama’s style evolution, in her own words for the first time.
In this celebration of style, from the moment she entered the public eye during her husband’s U.S. Senate campaign through her time as the first Black First Lady and today as one of this country’s most influential figures, Michelle Obama shares how she uses the beauty and intrigue of fashion to draw attention to her message.
Featuring the voices of Meredith Koop, Obama’s trusted stylist, as well as her makeup artist Carl Ray, hairstylists Yene Damtew, Johnny Wright, and Njeri Radway, and many of the designers who have dressed Obama for notable events, The Look brings readers behind the scenes not only to reveal how her most memorable looks came together but also to tell a powerful story about how we present ourselves.
Obama’s intimate and candid stories illuminate how her approach to dressing has evolved throughout her life—from the colorful sheath dresses, cardigans, and brooches she wore during her time as First Lady to the bold suits, denim, and braids of her post-White House life and all the active looks and beautiful gowns in between.
In The Look, Michelle Obama explores the joy and the purpose of fashion and beauty and how—when wielded with grace and care—they can uplift and affirm the values one holds most dear. Confidence, she concludes, cannot be put on. But when you’re wearing something that’s intentional or beloved, clothing can make you feel like the best version of yourself.
In this celebration of style, from the moment she entered the public eye during her husband’s U.S. Senate campaign through her time as the first Black First Lady and today as one of this country’s most influential figures, Michelle Obama shares how she uses the beauty and intrigue of fashion to draw attention to her message.
Featuring the voices of Meredith Koop, Obama’s trusted stylist, as well as her makeup artist Carl Ray, hairstylists Yene Damtew, Johnny Wright, and Njeri Radway, and many of the designers who have dressed Obama for notable events, The Look brings readers behind the scenes not only to reveal how her most memorable looks came together but also to tell a powerful story about how we present ourselves.
Obama’s intimate and candid stories illuminate how her approach to dressing has evolved throughout her life—from the colorful sheath dresses, cardigans, and brooches she wore during her time as First Lady to the bold suits, denim, and braids of her post-White House life and all the active looks and beautiful gowns in between.
In The Look, Michelle Obama explores the joy and the purpose of fashion and beauty and how—when wielded with grace and care—they can uplift and affirm the values one holds most dear. Confidence, she concludes, cannot be put on. But when you’re wearing something that’s intentional or beloved, clothing can make you feel like the best version of yourself.
287 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2025
653 people are currently reading
4519 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Obama
46 books123k followersMichelle Obama served as First Lady of the United States from 2009 to 2017. A graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Law School, Mrs. Obama started her career as an attorney at the Chicago law firm Sidley & Austin, where she met her future husband, Barack Obama. She later worked in the Chicago mayor’s office, at the University of Chicago, and at the University of Chicago Medical Center. Mrs. Obama also founded the Chicago chapter of Public Allies, an organization that prepares young people for careers in public service. She is the author of the #1 global bestseller Becoming and the #1 national bestseller American Grown. The Obamas currently live in Washington, D.C., and have two daughters, Malia and Sasha.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 319 reviews
February 18, 2026
“I understand that fashion was another opportunity for me to message to the world who I am and what I believe in.”
This stunning pictorial coffee table book offers far more than a visual archive of former First Lady Michelle Obama’s style—it is a thoughtful, intimate portrait of a woman who understood the quiet power of presentation and used it with intention, grace, and purpose.
During her years in the White House, Michelle Obama’s appearance was scrutinized to an exhausting and often disrespectful degree. Yet, in the face of relentless commentary, she carried herself with unwavering confidence and decorum.
As she reflects, “By the time we left the White House, I had learned a lot about being in the public eye—namely, not to take it personally.” That hard-won wisdom threads through every page.
Her fashion choices were never accidental. Bold colors, striking silhouettes, and strategic collaborations with up-and-coming designers sat comfortably alongside affordable, accessible pieces. Post-FLOTUS, her evolution—embracing braids, vibrant hues, and freer expression—felt both liberating and deeply intentional, reinforcing her message of inclusivity and authenticity.
Designer Maria Cornejo recalls Michelle Obama’s words:
“This is what America should be like. You’re welcome here.”
That ethos defines the book.
Organized into nine chapters—titles such as Into the Spotlight, Making Connections, First Lady as a Verb, Style Evolution, Hair Journey, and Confidently Me—the book traces not only a style journey, but a life lived consciously in public service. Each chapter usually opens with Michelle Obama’s own reflections, grounding the images in personal experience and offering insight into what she was carrying behind the smile or the perfectly chosen outfit.
The photography feels both polished and intimate, capturing her awareness of how every public moment would be interpreted—and her resolve to stay above criticism while remaining open and approachable.
Readers are also introduced to the stylists and designers who supported her, sharing what it meant to work alongside a woman so clear in her values and vision.
What emerges most powerfully is the balance she strikes: always professional, always diplomatic, yet warm, real, and refreshingly human. She reminds us that women can—and should—wear what works for them. Sometimes that meant a carefully chosen dress; other times, simply a button-up or T-shirt so her energy could be focused where it mattered most: connecting with people.
There is a soft power in fashion, and Michelle Obama wielded it masterfully—not for vanity, but for connection, representation, and respect, especially for those who styled her.
This book is a beautiful page-turner, equally suited to slow savoring or a single, immersive sitting. It evokes a time when leadership felt thoughtful, inclusive, and people-centered—and it celebrates a woman who continues to model those values with strength and grace.
Always classy, quietly whimsical, deeply intentional, and unmistakably real, Michelle Obama remains an icon worthy of admiration. And thankfully, she has no plans to disappear.
This stunning pictorial coffee table book offers far more than a visual archive of former First Lady Michelle Obama’s style—it is a thoughtful, intimate portrait of a woman who understood the quiet power of presentation and used it with intention, grace, and purpose.
During her years in the White House, Michelle Obama’s appearance was scrutinized to an exhausting and often disrespectful degree. Yet, in the face of relentless commentary, she carried herself with unwavering confidence and decorum.
As she reflects, “By the time we left the White House, I had learned a lot about being in the public eye—namely, not to take it personally.” That hard-won wisdom threads through every page.
Her fashion choices were never accidental. Bold colors, striking silhouettes, and strategic collaborations with up-and-coming designers sat comfortably alongside affordable, accessible pieces. Post-FLOTUS, her evolution—embracing braids, vibrant hues, and freer expression—felt both liberating and deeply intentional, reinforcing her message of inclusivity and authenticity.
Designer Maria Cornejo recalls Michelle Obama’s words:
“This is what America should be like. You’re welcome here.”
That ethos defines the book.
Organized into nine chapters—titles such as Into the Spotlight, Making Connections, First Lady as a Verb, Style Evolution, Hair Journey, and Confidently Me—the book traces not only a style journey, but a life lived consciously in public service. Each chapter usually opens with Michelle Obama’s own reflections, grounding the images in personal experience and offering insight into what she was carrying behind the smile or the perfectly chosen outfit.
The photography feels both polished and intimate, capturing her awareness of how every public moment would be interpreted—and her resolve to stay above criticism while remaining open and approachable.
Readers are also introduced to the stylists and designers who supported her, sharing what it meant to work alongside a woman so clear in her values and vision.
What emerges most powerfully is the balance she strikes: always professional, always diplomatic, yet warm, real, and refreshingly human. She reminds us that women can—and should—wear what works for them. Sometimes that meant a carefully chosen dress; other times, simply a button-up or T-shirt so her energy could be focused where it mattered most: connecting with people.
There is a soft power in fashion, and Michelle Obama wielded it masterfully—not for vanity, but for connection, representation, and respect, especially for those who styled her.
This book is a beautiful page-turner, equally suited to slow savoring or a single, immersive sitting. It evokes a time when leadership felt thoughtful, inclusive, and people-centered—and it celebrates a woman who continues to model those values with strength and grace.
Always classy, quietly whimsical, deeply intentional, and unmistakably real, Michelle Obama remains an icon worthy of admiration. And thankfully, she has no plans to disappear.
November 16, 2025
First off, I may be bias but I’m a big fan of Michelle Obama. This is one giant book filled with beautiful photography and passages of Mrs. Obama’s style and elegance… dare I say legacy. She embodies gracefulness, classy, and versatility through each page. I loved how as a First Lady she challenged the norms through her fashion but most of all her persona.
December 14, 2025
Nurturing a strong sense of self is a constant battle--and one I am committed to. It's a reciprocal, inside-out experience. That confidence translates to how you carry yourself in that outfit. And yet confidence is not something anyone can purchase and put on. It's hard work to stay grounded in such a competitive and often superficial world, when there's so much attention, too often negative, surrounding our physical appearance--especially as we get older. And so I'm not going to let every new wrinkle or gray hair make me question my worth. I know that I feel better when I am taking care of myself --both physically and mentally.--Michelle Obama
I remember standing in line to enter the Renwick Gallery in Washington DC on Mother's Day 2016. When I turned around to survey my surroundings and saw the White House, I was gobsmacked. The Trump family had settled in but the wistfulness and collective missing of the Obamas was still clearly felt in the city. Michelle herself had visited the gallery a week before.
"Hi Mom--Happy Mother's Day! Guess where I'm standing? In front of the White House!!" I screeched into my tiny cell phone.
We'd see our mothers for Mother's Day a little later on but for that morning we were acclimating ourselves to the logistics of travel to DC for my husband's upcoming work event. We visited The Renwick Gallery and had lunch.
On the way to finding a restaurant, The Black women of the city were adding an exquisite elegance to the gray streets with their outfits, confidence, and elan: dresses with chic matching hats and heels, hair beautifully coiffed in an array of different attractive styles.
I felt exhilarated. I was a sloppy hick from the sticks and appreciated taking in the beauty of those ladies as they strutted in and out of various restaurants.
Throughout her many world travels, Michelle Obama was significant not only as a style icon or a person of power and authority, but also as an aspirational figure, someone who invited her audience to join her in a project of making the world a better and more just place. At home and abroad, she was future-oriented--explaining that the world is ours to make so let's get to work. And work she did. As First Lady she was constantly in motion--dancing, running, racing, interacting with children, gardening, laughing. She was dignity and grace while standing beside world leaders--tall, confident, controlled, ceremonial. When necessary, she was mournful, such as when she attended the funeral of Hadiya Pendleton, a Chicago teenager who had been shot to death days after she performed with her high school band at inauguration events in Washington, one of many young people lost to senseless gun violence. Throughout her time in the East Wing, Mrs. Obama fully embodied her role--she was a multidimensional, real person even as she became more and more of an icon.--Farah Jasmine Griffin, in the foreword
I look up to and admire Michelle Obama very much. In The Look, I was treated to a feast of the senses with Mrs. Obama's engaging text talking about her style evolution as she rose to the spotlight as a senator's, then as a president's wife and beyond. The large, sumptuous photographs were a treat. It was a pleasure to revisit some of her First Lady looks and also to see and read about the beautiful braids she sported after leaving the White House.
The Obamas all carried themselves with class, grace, and a determined professionalism during Barack Obama's two terms. They were held to an unfair higher standard because their skin tones happen to be brown. It could be argued quite well that in comparison to past presidents' behaviors and proclivities, Barack Obama's personal conduct outclassed some of them. I'm still shocked and angered at what the vile woman mayor from West Virginia said about Michelle and her heels. I'm still shocked that just last night a conservative YouTuber is still making jokes about "Mike." C'mon!
Michelle Obama, along with many, many Black men and women, have inspired and influenced me. It boggles my mind that people who take such great care and time to look fabulous and are just tip-top people are scrutinized and viewed as 'other.' I'm so glad Michelle explained in The Look about the time it takes to care for and to style her hair. Wow!
If farmers and blacksmiths could win independence from an empire...if immigrants could leave behind everything they knew for a better life on our shores...if women could be dragged to jail for seeking the vote...if a generation could defeat a depression, and define greatness for all time...if a young preacher could lift us to the mountaintop with his righteous dream...and if proud Americans can be who they are and boldly stand at the altar with who they love...then surely, surely we can give everyone in this country a fair chance at that great American Dream. Because in the end, more than anything else, that is the story of this country--the story of unwavering hope grounded in unyielding struggle.--Michelle Obama
February 16, 2026
A quick insight into her fashion and the village it takes to make her look picture perfect all the time, some repetition from some of her other books regarding her journey of life.
As an fyi, I read this as an ebook and it finishes around 75% with the rest acknowledgements, about the author, designer and photograph credits and an excerpt from her other book The Light We Carry.
As an fyi, I read this as an ebook and it finishes around 75% with the rest acknowledgements, about the author, designer and photograph credits and an excerpt from her other book The Light We Carry.
November 16, 2025
A must-read for fans of fashion. It’s not just pretty pictures (though there are plenty of those), but Ms. Obama explains her approach to her clothing and the importance of style choices for the First Lady in our media environment.
December 23, 2025
In a world where stepping out as your best self comes with being under constant scrutiny, no better book than The Look shows up. It isn’t just a step back in time. It is history in the making. This is the best look into what goes into putting a look for our First Lady together for trips, meetings, allowing her to feel her best while looking her best. It wasn’t just about the role of First Lady but showing us that we all can be whoever we want to be, showing up in the style we want, keeping in touch with our culture and being accessible with each other on our own terms.Choosing designers on purpose that were not well known during the road to becoming First Lady and living the life for eight years makes all her looks all the more meaningful. It’s an emotional read for me, reading the words of the designers who watched her take center stage as First Lady while she wore their designs. I appreciate her for putting this out. I wish I hadn’t finished it in 3 hours. Couldn’t help myself. LOL!
January 9, 2026
Wow I loved this one. Michelle Obama is a national treasure. It’s a reflection on identity, visibility, and the power of showing up as yourself in spaces that weren’t built for you. I loved learning about the thought behind her style choices and how she used fashion as a form of communication and connection.
I listened to the audiobook and found myself often looking up the various looks she referenced. I would love a hard copy of this book for my shelf for sure.
I listened to the audiobook and found myself often looking up the various looks she referenced. I would love a hard copy of this book for my shelf for sure.
December 6, 2025
Absolutely stunning!!!! Michelle Obama is the epitome of poise, intelligence, and humor. I cherish every opportunity I get to read her words and gather insight about her thoughts.
November 6, 2025
Wildly disappointing. She understandably complains about having to conform to white beauty standards, but didn’t do anything to challenge those standards until after she left the White House/spotlight. She had an incredible opportunity to change the very thing she complained about.
In this political climate, it feels extremely tone deaf to complain about your hair.
In this political climate, it feels extremely tone deaf to complain about your hair.
December 1, 2025
A beautiful “coffee table” book with gorgeous photos of stunning clothes and fascinating narration about the clothes, Michelle Obama’s life and being a Black woman in America. She never loses sight of her place in history and how her clothes reflect and affect her image. It is exhausting to read about just how much work it took to maintain her image for the 8 years she was First Lady. It is interesting how much freer she felt about her “image��� once she left the White House and how her clothing and her hair reflected that sense of freedom. (Still a lot of work to maintain!) My only ding on the book is that I would have liked more descriptions of the clothes besides who the designer was and what the occasion was. Also having those descriptions on the same page as the photo would have been better than having to flip back and forth between the photos and the list of credits in the back.
Otherwise this is a fascinating peek inside the world of high fashion and the life of Michelle Obama.
Otherwise this is a fascinating peek inside the world of high fashion and the life of Michelle Obama.
January 14, 2026
This was super interesting, and a lovely look at some of the people behind Mrs. Obama. I enjoyed the photos. I don't remember a lot of these looks, and some of them are just beyond stunning. I found the approach to fashion, be it clothing or hair or makeup, very insightful.
December 12, 2025
I started this book because I’ve always admired Michelle Obama, and I expected it to explore the pressures and nuances of having to “look good” as First Lady. The book does begin with that idea, discussing how women, especially women in public roles, are often reduced to their physical appearance.
But Michelle Obama goes further. She reflects on what it meant to be the first Black First Lady: the need to defy stereotypes, foster inclusivity, and still find a way to stay true to herself. Through it all, she shares how she worked to remain authentic, not just in how she looked, but in how she led, connected, and lived.
There are also a few sections written (and narrated in the audiobook) by artists who worked closely with her. These voices are a testament to just how open, and welcoming Michelle truly is.
The foreword by Farah Jasmine Griffin is especially beautiful, and I actually went back and read it again at the end. It reminded me of Michelle Obama’s authenticity and dignity, and left me thinking: this is exactly why I’ve always been so fond of her.
But Michelle Obama goes further. She reflects on what it meant to be the first Black First Lady: the need to defy stereotypes, foster inclusivity, and still find a way to stay true to herself. Through it all, she shares how she worked to remain authentic, not just in how she looked, but in how she led, connected, and lived.
There are also a few sections written (and narrated in the audiobook) by artists who worked closely with her. These voices are a testament to just how open, and welcoming Michelle truly is.
The foreword by Farah Jasmine Griffin is especially beautiful, and I actually went back and read it again at the end. It reminded me of Michelle Obama’s authenticity and dignity, and left me thinking: this is exactly why I’ve always been so fond of her.
December 22, 2025
A beautiful book, filled with wonderful photos of her outfits but especially some of her gorgeous dresses. This was a lovely coffee table book. I say coffee table book because it's a large book and heavy to hold, but definitely worth getting and reading. Even if you aren't a democrat, you might like the dresses regardless. They are simply lovely. Michelle Obama is also a wonderful person. Had it been a vote between Michelle Obama and Kamala Harris? I'd have voted for Michelle Obama in a heartbeat. 5 ⭐.
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January 28, 2026Michelle Obama! the woman that you are!!
I’ve admired Michelle Obama for as long as I can remember.. her grace, charisma, and the way she carries and articulates herself have always stood out to me. Having loved her previous books, I was excited to add The Look to my TBR, and it did not disappoint. This book isn’t just about fashion, but every page reflects her intentionality - from the stories she shares to the people she highlights and the looks she thoughtfully curated during her time as First Lady.
I especially loved the inclusivity and how unapologetically herself she remains in every space. A beautiful reminder of showing up as your best self. PLUS! The photos are stunning!
I’ve admired Michelle Obama for as long as I can remember.. her grace, charisma, and the way she carries and articulates herself have always stood out to me. Having loved her previous books, I was excited to add The Look to my TBR, and it did not disappoint. This book isn’t just about fashion, but every page reflects her intentionality - from the stories she shares to the people she highlights and the looks she thoughtfully curated during her time as First Lady.
I especially loved the inclusivity and how unapologetically herself she remains in every space. A beautiful reminder of showing up as your best self. PLUS! The photos are stunning!
January 2, 2026
Did I expect to cry reading a book about fashion? No. Did I? Absolutely. The pressure that we put on women when it comes to the way they show up in the world is high, but add to that being the First Lady, and not only that but the first Black First Lady… my word.
Michelle was under a microscope and chided for the most absurd things, like wearing cardigans and shorts ONE TIME on a trip to the Grand Canyon. Seeing how she was so thoughtful about her fashion choices, (was she respectful to the cultures, could she hug people, could kids sit on her lap), was beautiful.
Also, all of the joy in the photos, many of them being mid laughter, just made me miss the Obama administration… hence the tears. Yes there was GORGEOUS fashion in this book, but mostly there was heart.
Michelle was under a microscope and chided for the most absurd things, like wearing cardigans and shorts ONE TIME on a trip to the Grand Canyon. Seeing how she was so thoughtful about her fashion choices, (was she respectful to the cultures, could she hug people, could kids sit on her lap), was beautiful.
Also, all of the joy in the photos, many of them being mid laughter, just made me miss the Obama administration… hence the tears. Yes there was GORGEOUS fashion in this book, but mostly there was heart.
December 3, 2025
I loved this book! I'm not what anybody would consider a fashion person, but it really is interesting to take a deep dive into how what you wear conveys about you and your message. It took a team of people to research events and locations and the purpose of them in order to give Michelle choices about how she would present herself to the world. She was constantly scrutinized, and what she wore sent a message. Really interesting book that I highly recommend, even though parts of it made me teary remembering how wonderful it was to have her as first lady.
February 20, 2026
Do you admire Michelle Obama? Do you want to know what life is like in the White House? Are you interested in fashion? If you answered yes to all of those questions this beautiful book may be for you.
The Look is a beautiful coffee table book. There are plenty of photos of Michelle Obama during her years as FLOTUS and beyond. Michelle tells the stories behind what she is wearing and the thought that went behind it. I enjoyed that immensely.
This is really a book that should be looked at and read in the full sized hardcover version. That being said the heft and the glare from the glossy pages make reading somewhat difficult. It is also an expensive book, which even though I loved it, I don't imagine, I would want to look through repeatedly. So consider those factors before purchase. It did work great for me as a library book.
The Look is a beautiful coffee table book. There are plenty of photos of Michelle Obama during her years as FLOTUS and beyond. Michelle tells the stories behind what she is wearing and the thought that went behind it. I enjoyed that immensely.
This is really a book that should be looked at and read in the full sized hardcover version. That being said the heft and the glare from the glossy pages make reading somewhat difficult. It is also an expensive book, which even though I loved it, I don't imagine, I would want to look through repeatedly. So consider those factors before purchase. It did work great for me as a library book.
January 1, 2026
Breathtaking and inspirational. Everything you want when paging through a style memoir: wealth of full-page photographs, evocative fashion, and rich insights into the intentionality and artistry of each look. The text is authentic, informative, and personable. More than eye-candy, though it is unquestionably gorgeous, it is equally a tribute to amplifying voices in design as well as to balancing the practical with the showstopping.
From the endpaper: "In The Look, Michelle Obama explores the joy and purpose of fashion and beauty, and how--when wielded with grace and care--they can uplift and affirm the values one holds most dear. Confidence, she concludes, cannot be put on. But when you're wearing something that's intentional or beloved, clothing can make you feel like the best version of yourself."
From the endpaper: "In The Look, Michelle Obama explores the joy and purpose of fashion and beauty, and how--when wielded with grace and care--they can uplift and affirm the values one holds most dear. Confidence, she concludes, cannot be put on. But when you're wearing something that's intentional or beloved, clothing can make you feel like the best version of yourself."
January 2, 2026
Beautiful coffee table book filled with amazing fashion and The Who, what, why of the looks. I enjoyed this book and really appreciate how critical this was in barracks campaign. What pressure that must have been for her with constant criticism from all over. She handled it amazingly and is appreciated for her sense of style and beauty.
February 8, 2026
God, I love this beautiful woman. Looking through a book full of pictures of her feels like a warm hug. What an amazing example she is for our girls.
"People could say whatever they wanted—I’d keep my head high. Self-confidence is as much a choice and a mindset as anything else."
- Michelle Obama
The Look showcases the style and grace of First Lady Michelle Obama. What an icon.
"People could say whatever they wanted—I’d keep my head high. Self-confidence is as much a choice and a mindset as anything else."
- Michelle Obama
The Look showcases the style and grace of First Lady Michelle Obama. What an icon.
February 9, 2026
What an absolutely stunning book. I believe that Michelle Obama is one of the most charismatic and stylish First Ladies that has ever graced the White House. She embodies the spirit of a strong intelligent woman who is not only cognizant of the importance of understanding other cultures in the world, but also respecting them.
This is a magnificent book, featuring Michelle’s many exquisite ensembles, while also highlighting the designers and stylists that helped her create these looks.
Kudos on this addition to Ms Obama’s literary achievements.
This is a magnificent book, featuring Michelle’s many exquisite ensembles, while also highlighting the designers and stylists that helped her create these looks.
Kudos on this addition to Ms Obama’s literary achievements.
January 6, 2026
All the stars! Brilliant, stunning, and insightful book that is part memoir, part analysis of beauty and culture, part picture book.
I treated myself to this as a holiday present and I’m so glad I did. It’s something I will return to over and over many years.
Also listened to the audiobook narrated by Michelle Obama while I read. Just a heavenly experience!
I treated myself to this as a holiday present and I’m so glad I did. It’s something I will return to over and over many years.
Also listened to the audiobook narrated by Michelle Obama while I read. Just a heavenly experience!
January 8, 2026
A beautiful and inspirational book.
January 15, 2026
Beautiful book with thick, glossy pages and big pictures. Lots of interesting background information on different outfits, hairstyles, etc and her / her team’s fashion outlook/philosophy in general. As a fan of Mrs Obama and her style, I was not disappointed.
February 9, 2026
A beautiful book with fabulous pictures of many of Michelle Obama's ensembles. She writes about the team that helps her create the look she wanted to portray for each event. It was interesting reading how her look eveolved over time and then totally changed again once she left the White House. It was then that she felt she could truly be herself.
February 2, 2026
The most iconic woman in the history of the world 💗🩷 I love Michelle Obama and she is such an inspiration. Also LOVED the pictures! It was so fun to read about the thought behind a certain look and then actually see what she was describing.
February 8, 2026
a thoughtful look at how and what fashion communicates to the culture it lives in
November 11, 2025
Definitely a "fluff" read or in my case, listen. This came up as a suggested audiobook on Spotify. I'm sure the actual book is filled with all kinds of pictures to show the different looks she mentions. I felt like you could tell everyone was reading from a script - nothing about it felt authentic even when it was the person's true account. Too polished, too robotic? Nothing wrong with the content - it's exactly as the name implies - nothing more, nothing less. Just an inside scoop on how her style evolved before, during, and after being the first lady 🤷
February 6, 2026
I loved this book! Michelle reflected on the power fashion had throughout her life and ultimately the role it played while she was in the White House. I enjoyed learning the behind the scenes details of how they used fashion as a form of communication and how she was able to show up feeling like herself in spaces that were not designed for her. She consistently used (and continues to use) her platform to shine a light on others. What an incredible role model for women and girls everywhere!
November 17, 2025
The Look: The couture and style of Michelle Obama.
The Look: The publicly performative view of the First Lady of the United States---both a box to fit in and expand upon.
The Look: The act of the viewer(and their expectations, prior bias, personal opinions) gazing at Michelle Obama.
Brilliantly coined title. Gorgeous photography. And lovely clothes.
There's a lot to unpack here and I think that it's explained well. While my perceptions of the Obamas have changed as they aged(this happens to me with most public figures as they, and I, age) and as I read his first volume of his autobiography, I think Michelle very astutely captures a lot of the problems with and benefits of roles, clothes, sex, and race and their intersection.
That said, I skimmed the essays from others. I remain in awe that given the complexities of the role and just life that Michelle still performed her role gracefully and with her own style. It's a far cry from some who really seemed to have differing goals and almost seem silently protesting something. I'm not saying they don't have something to protest. I'm sure that Michelle could be on that list---she herself notes the sacrifice it was with her work, family, and life--- to uproot their family and move to DC. I'm saying I'm impressed that it doesn't show in her dress and the photos.
I can also appreciate that our styles change as our lives change and as we get more comfortable in our skin. There's often a notable change in outward presentation as women age. Some begin to fight it more apparently and others settle more solidly/comfortably into their core identity. For women, there's a shift that seems to happen around 35 and another around menopause. I could be wrong but it's just what I've observed.
The Look: The publicly performative view of the First Lady of the United States---both a box to fit in and expand upon.
The Look: The act of the viewer(and their expectations, prior bias, personal opinions) gazing at Michelle Obama.
Brilliantly coined title. Gorgeous photography. And lovely clothes.
There's a lot to unpack here and I think that it's explained well. While my perceptions of the Obamas have changed as they aged(this happens to me with most public figures as they, and I, age) and as I read his first volume of his autobiography, I think Michelle very astutely captures a lot of the problems with and benefits of roles, clothes, sex, and race and their intersection.
That said, I skimmed the essays from others. I remain in awe that given the complexities of the role and just life that Michelle still performed her role gracefully and with her own style. It's a far cry from some who really seemed to have differing goals and almost seem silently protesting something. I'm not saying they don't have something to protest. I'm sure that Michelle could be on that list---she herself notes the sacrifice it was with her work, family, and life--- to uproot their family and move to DC. I'm saying I'm impressed that it doesn't show in her dress and the photos.
I can also appreciate that our styles change as our lives change and as we get more comfortable in our skin. There's often a notable change in outward presentation as women age. Some begin to fight it more apparently and others settle more solidly/comfortably into their core identity. For women, there's a shift that seems to happen around 35 and another around menopause. I could be wrong but it's just what I've observed.
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