Former First Lady Michelle Obama has candidly shared her experiences of facing intense public scrutiny during her time in the White House, particularly as a Black woman. In a recent interview promoting her new book, The Look, Obama reflected on how these pressures influenced her fashion choices and public persona.
During her appearance on ABC News’s 20/20, Obama discussed what she describes as a “white hot glare” that accompanied her role as the first Black First Lady of the United States. “We were all too aware that as a first Black couple, we couldn’t afford any missteps. And that as a Black woman, I was under a particularly white hot glare,” she stated, emphasizing the unique challenges she faced in a political landscape where race could be weaponized against her.
Fashion as a Form of Communication
In her book, Obama elaborates on how she used style as a means of communication, signaling values and messages through her wardrobe. “Style and fashion, and how we show up in the world is an important way that we send a message,” she explained. Despite her cautious approach to discussing fashion during her White House years—viewing it as a potential distraction from her work—she has since embraced it as a form of “soft power.”
Reflecting on her style choices, Obama noted her intent to present a welcoming image. She often avoided wearing white, recognizing the importance of making others feel included. “What you’re wearing says something about what you care about. It speaks to your background, your culture. So, I really thought about what I wanted to say,” she remarked.
In her commentary, Obama also criticized the cultural tendency to target women based on their appearance, stating, “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.” This observation underscores the challenges women face in public life, particularly in high-profile roles.
A New Chapter
Obama’s book, co-authored with her stylist, features photographs from her time in the spotlight, accompanied by explanations of her wardrobe decisions. As she reflects on her life today, she expresses a newfound sense of freedom. “You know, there’s something about the 60s. It is the best time of my life now that my daughters are launched and doing well. My husband’s settled,” she shared.
With her family thriving, Obama feels liberated to embrace her identity and experiences fully. “I can say, ‘Yeah, maybe I know a few things,’” she said, highlighting the confidence she has gained in her later years.
Through her insights, Obama not only sheds light on her personal journey but also opens a dialogue about the broader implications of race, gender, and public perception. Her reflections serve as a reminder of the complex interplay between identity and visibility in public life.
