Former First Lady Michelle Obama shared insights about the intense public scrutiny she faced during her time in the White House, particularly as a Black woman. In her new book, The Look, she reflects on how this pressure influenced her fashion choices. Speaking to ABC News as part of her promotional tour, Obama emphasized the unique challenges she encountered, stating, “We were all too aware that as a first black couple, we couldn’t afford any missteps.”
The 61-year-old Obama, who now feels more confident with her family settled, described the “white hot glare” that accompanied her every move in the public eye. She noted that her experience differed significantly from that of other political families, saying, “We didn’t get the grace that I think some other families have gotten.” This scrutiny, she explained, was amplified by a political climate that often weaponized her race against her.
Fashion as a Form of Expression
During her White House tenure, Obama approached fashion with caution, concerned that it could detract from her work. Now, however, she embraces it as a vital form of “soft power.” She explained, “Style and fashion, and how we show up in the world is an important way that we send a message,” adding that clothing choices reflect personal values and cultural backgrounds.
In her book, co-authored with her stylist, Obama includes photographs and detailed explanations of her wardrobe decisions. She recalled considering the opinions of women, especially mothers and grandmothers, who expected her to represent them well. “I really thought about what I wanted to say,” she stated.
One notable aspect of her wardrobe was her avoidance of white clothing, aiming to create a welcoming appearance. Obama also criticized societal tendencies to judge women based on their looks, saying, “We live in a culture, sadly, where, you know, if somebody wants to go after a woman, the first thing they do is go after our looks, our size, our physical being.”
Reflecting on Personal Freedom
As she promotes her book, Obama reflects on her current life, expressing a sense of freedom now that her daughters have grown and her husband, Barack Obama, is settled. “There’s something about the 60s. It is the best time of my life now that my daughters are launched and doing well,” she remarked. This newfound confidence allows her to assert, “Yeah, maybe I know a few things.”
The insights shared by Michelle Obama not only highlight her personal journey but also shed light on broader societal issues regarding race, gender, and the impact of public perception. Through her narrative in The Look, she invites readers to consider the intricate relationship between personal expression and public expectation in the realm of politics and beyond.
