Michelle Obama explains that during her eight years as first lady she often moved from an important speech to a meeting with a foreign leader and then to gardening with schoolchildren. Her clothing needed to adjust to every situation. She says she never had time to think deeply about outfits because she had many other responsibilities including raising Sasha and Malia.
Her concerns were practical. She wondered if she could hug people comfortably and whether her clothes might get dirty. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago and becoming the first Black woman in the role shaped her understanding of clothing and the messages it sends.
Clothing That Needed To Welcome Rather Than Distance People
Michelle Obama became one of the most watched women in the world. People paid attention to her actions her words and her style. In her book The Look written with her longtime stylist Meredith Koop she describes her journey with fashion hair and makeup.
She wanted clothing that felt warm and inviting. She avoided white clothing at events where she greeted crowds because people often reached out for hugs. Her role also involved active moments such as catching a football playing soccer with David Beckham completing pushups with Archbishop Desmond Tutu and breaking a Guinness World Record for jumping jacks. She needed clothing that could support all of that.
The Jason Wu Inaugural Gown That Changed A Designer’s Future
The white one shoulder chiffon gown she wore at the first inaugural ball was designed by Jason Wu who at that time was unknown. When she appeared in it the moment transformed his career. She explains that she and President Barack Obama understood that everything they chose sent a message and they wanted their choices to create opportunities for others.
The Rose Gold Versace Gown At The Final State Dinner
Michelle Obama wore a rose gold gown by Versace at the final state dinner in 2016. She describes it as enjoyable bold and confident. She recalls putting it on and thinking that it felt beautiful and expressive especially for the last state dinner of their administration.
The Maroon Look At President Biden’s Inauguration
At the 2021 inauguration of President Joe Biden she wore a maroon outfit by Sergio Hudson including a long flowing coat and a wide belt with a round buckle. The outfit became a major internet moment although her intention was practical. After the events of January 6 she wanted clothing that allowed easy movement in case something unexpected happened. She says she did not expect the look to become viral.
Memories Of The East Wing Before Its Demolition
Michelle Obama also shared memories of the East Wing which Donald Trump recently demolished to create space for a ballroom. She remembers the East Wing as a warm place filled with laughter apples children and dogs. It stood in contrast to the West Wing where difficult national issues were handled.
She says she and President Obama never saw the White House as their house. They viewed themselves as caretakers with duties to complete. She adds that every president has the right to shape the space and that this is why the country must be careful about whom it elects.
