The Look is a #1 New York Times bestseller that offers readers a beautifully illustrated and deeply personal exploration of Michelle Obama’s evolving sense of style. Featuring more than 200 photographs—including many never-before-seen images—the book is not just about fashion, but about identity, confidence, and the power of intentional self-presentation. Told in Michelle Obama’s own words for the first time, The Look is a visual and narrative journey that reflects how clothing and beauty can be meaningful tools for communication.
The book traces Michelle Obama’s public life from the moment she entered the national spotlight during Barack Obama’s U.S. Senate campaign, through her historic role as the first Black First Lady of the United States, and into her present life as one of the most influential and admired figures in the world. Throughout these stages, Obama reveals how fashion became a way to express her values, connect with people, and draw attention to the messages she cared about most.
Rather than presenting style as something superficial, The Look emphasizes its deeper purpose. Michelle Obama explains how fashion can be used thoughtfully—to uplift, to affirm identity, and to reflect confidence and authenticity. Her choices were never random; each outfit carried intention, whether it was meant to appear approachable, strong, modern, or respectful of the moment. Through her story, readers come to understand that clothing can speak before words do.
A special strength of the book is the inclusion of voices from the people who worked closely with Obama throughout her journey. Meredith Koop, her trusted stylist, offers insights into how iconic looks were planned and executed. The book also features contributions from her makeup artist Carl Ray and hairstylists Yene Damtew, Johnny Wright, and Njeri Radway. Designers who dressed Obama for major events also share their perspectives, giving readers a behind-the-scenes look at how some of her most memorable appearances came together.
Michelle Obama’s personal reflections make the book intimate and relatable. She candidly describes how her approach to dressing evolved over time. As First Lady, she became known for her colorful sheath dresses, cardigans, brooches, and elegant gowns that balanced tradition with modernity. In her post–White House life, her style shifted toward bold suits, denim, relaxed silhouettes, and natural hairstyles, including braids—reflecting a new chapter of freedom, comfort, and self-definition. The book also highlights her activewear and everyday looks, reminding readers that style exists in daily life, not just on grand stages.
At its heart, The Look is about confidence and self-worth. Michelle Obama makes it clear that confidence cannot simply be worn like an outfit. However, she believes that wearing something intentional or deeply loved can help a person feel more like their best self. Fashion, when approached with care and grace, can support inner strength rather than replace it.
Ultimately, The Look celebrates the joy of fashion while honoring its purpose. It encourages readers to see clothing as a form of self-expression and storytelling. Through stunning visuals and honest storytelling, Michelle Obama shows that how we present ourselves can reflect who we are, what we value, and the messages we want to share with the world.
