Michelle Obama’s Journey: Style, Substance, and Self-Acceptance

The Upcoming Release of “The Look”

Michelle Obama is once again at the center of attention, this time gearing up for the release of her new book, The Look, which will hit shelves on November 4. This coffee table book, co-written with her long-time stylist Meredith Koop, chronicles not just the fashion choices of America’s former first lady but also the public scrutiny that accompanied them. Through her unique lens, Obama sheds light on how her iconic style was meticulously crafted during a time of celebration and criticism.

Confidence Gained Through Experience

At 61, Obama reflects on her evolution since her days in the White House. “Fundamentally, I’m the same person,” she shares with PEOPLE. “But with each decade, I’ve grown wiser. I think I’ve become more confident about who I am.” This new phase of her life has allowed her to embrace who she is without the weight of public expectation dictating her every move.

A Shift in Perspective on Fashion

During her tenure as first lady, Obama intentionally chose to avoid discussing fashion and beauty, fearing that it would overshadow the more serious issues she aimed to address. “I purposefully did not talk about fashion and beauty during the eight years in the White House,” she explains. Yet, now that she’s settled into life post-presidency, she believes it’s finally time to explore that journey. With her daughters out of the house and her own identity evolving, she feels empowered to share her experiences.

Lessons from a Humble Beginning

Reflecting back, Michelle recalls her childhood on the South Side of Chicago and how it shaped her views on beauty and style. Watching Soul Train was a rite of passage—a source of inspiration that introduced her to vibrant colors, creative designs, and unique flair. These early influences played a pivotal role in forming her aesthetic consciousness.

Self-Love and Resilience in the Spotlight

As a tall woman in a world filled with societal standards, Obama learned early on the importance of self-acceptance. “I’m still working on, every day, waking up, looking in the mirror and telling myself that I am smart and beautiful,” she states. This message resonates especially for women of color who often navigate a landscape fraught with external judgments. With today’s political climate attempting to suppress voices, Obama emphasizes that self-worth and validation must come from within.

Navigating the Image of a First Lady

When Obama met Barack, she was already a power attorney, clad in professional attire. Her wardrobe choices were dictated by the corporate environment—a stark contrast to the vibrant dresses that would later define her public persona. “You had to show up … in a uniform: a very, very shouldered suit,” she chuckles at the memories of outdated styles.

Upon stepping into the role of first lady, Obama approached her wardrobe with the seriousness of any job. “It was a complicated assignment,” she reflects. The pressure of being an inspirational figure while remaining authentic to herself was a delicate balance she worked hard to achieve.

The Impact of Fashion Choices

Despite the immense scrutiny, some of her fashion choices sparked positive connections. While she didn’t pay much attention to the frenzy surrounding her outfits, she appreciated that her styles often resonated with everyday Americans. “I liked the fact that, in hindsight, people identified with what I was wearing,” she reveals, emphasizing her desire for inclusivity across diverse demographics and political affiliations.

Facing Criticism with Poise

The criticism she faced—like backlash over her bare arms—was often rooted in hypocrisy. “I could pull up pictures of Jackie O and see this fashion icon in sleeveless dresses,” she asserts. It illuminated the double standards that often permeate public life, particularly for women of color in positions of power.

Cherished Moments Behind the Glamour

Reflecting on her time at state dinners, Obama describes how these events often felt like date nights with Barack. “With each year I got a little riskier,” she shared, emphasizing how she enjoyed these moments where the couple could appreciate each other amidst the chaos of public life.

Life After the White House

These days, date nights have changed. “We’re both happy about date night, we’re at home,” she jokes about their relaxed evenings filled with candlelight and conversation. This new chapter reflects their long-lasting partnership and shared values as they navigate life after the presidency.

Balancing Autonomy with Guidance for Her Daughters

Raising daughters Malia and Sasha in the limelight posed its challenges. Obama maintained a balance by providing guidance while allowing them autonomy in their choices. “Your choices can’t lead, but you can be a part of the process,” she instructed them through collaborative styling sessions.

Embracing Natural Beauty and Cultural Identity

In embracing her natural beauty, Michelle expresses newfound freedom with her hairstyle choices, especially opting for braids. “That’s freedom,” she notes, recognizing that her hair symbolizes her identity. While she was once hesitant about public reception to her braids, she now wants to challenge the narrative and promote acceptance of hairstyles that celebrate cultural heritages.

Thriving in Her 60s

As she embraces her 60s, Obama describes a vibrant lifestyle dedicated to health and well-being. “I’m not wincing at my gray hairs, but I am coloring them!” she laughs. With her children successful and independent, she revels in the freedom to make choices that fulfill her, marking this as the first time she’s truly able to assert her will in both her public and personal life.

Through this engaging dialogue, Michelle Obama continues to inspire countless individuals with her journey of self-discovery, affirming that every woman deserves to embrace her identity and celebrate her past, present, and future.