Nearly a decade after leaving the White House, Michelle Obama is opening up about the meaning behind her fashion choices and how she used style to promote inclusion during her eight years as First Lady. In her forthcoming book The Look, co-authored with her longtime stylist Meredith Koop and set for release on November 4, 2025, Obama details the deliberate intent behind her wardrobe and the broader message it conveyed about diversity and opportunity in America.

In a televised interview, Obama explained that every outfit was chosen with purpose. “I really thought about what I wanted to say with my fashion. I wanted to talk about inclusion, diversity, opening up opportunities—and fashion was one of those tools that allowed me to do that,” she said. Her selections often featured young, female, and immigrant-American designers to reflect the variety and excellence that define the nation.

Among her most notable choices was the decision to wear a gown by Taiwanese-born, New York-based designer Jason Wu at both of her inaugural balls in 2009 and 2013. Obama said Wu’s story represented the American spirit of innovation and diversity she sought to highlight. “He had just gotten started, and he had a beautiful story. That was the point—to find the best designers and give them a stage to show the world how great they were. That’s what makes America great,” she said.

Obama also revealed that she intentionally avoided discussing fashion while serving as First Lady, fearing it would distract from her broader work. “During my eight years in the White House, I made it a point to shy away from that conversation because I was worried it would become a distraction,” she said. Since leaving office, she has embraced more personal freedom, including bold looks that reflect her evolving identity.

The Look features more than 200 photographs—some never before seen—and will be accompanied by a six-part podcast series titled IMO: The Look, launching November 5. Produced by the Obamas’ media company, Higher Ground, the podcast will include conversations with cultural figures such as Jane Fonda, Bethann Hardison, and Jenna Lyons. Obama describes the project as a reflection on authenticity, empowerment, and the idea that fashion can be both personal and political.

Reflecting on her journey, Obama said she hopes to inspire others to feel confident in their own skin. “When we look around at who has built this country and who keeps it moving, it’s all of us,” she said. “That’s the story of America—and it’s the same story told through fashion.”