By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

In "The Look," Michelle Obama, with the collaboration of her longtime stylist Meredith Koop, embarks on a sartorial odyssey that is as visually arresting as it is narratively compelling. This 304-page tome, adorned with over 200 photographs—including previously unseen images—offers an intimate exploration of Obama's fashion evolution from her early days in the public eye to her post-White House endeavors.

The book commences with nostalgic recollections of Obama's childhood in Chicago, highlighting formative experiences like back-to-school shopping at Sears. These anecdotes serve as a prelude to the intricate dance of fashion and identity that unfolds as she steps into the national spotlight. Obama candidly discusses the strategic considerations behind her wardrobe choices during her husband's presidential campaign and her tenure as First Lady. She articulates how fashion became a conduit for her messages, stating, “People looked forward to the outfits, and once I got their attention, they listened to what I had to say. This is the soft power of fashion.” ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/michelle-obama/the-look-2/?utm_source=openai))

The narrative is enriched by contributions from key figures in Obama's style journey. Meredith Koop, who assumed the role of primary wardrobe stylist at the age of 28, provides insightful commentary on the collaborative process of curating Obama's public image. Makeup artist Carl Ray and hairstylists Yene Damtew, Johnny Wright, and Njeri Radway offer perspectives on the challenges and triumphs of maintaining a consistent and authentic appearance under the relentless scrutiny of the public eye. Designers like Jason Wu, renowned for crafting several of Obama's iconic gowns, share their experiences and the creative synergy that brought these ensembles to life.

Visually, "The Look" is a feast. The inclusion of candid photographs, formal portraits, designer sketches, and magazine covers from publications such as Better Homes & Gardens and Vogue provides a comprehensive visual narrative. These images not only showcase the garments but also encapsulate the moments and sentiments they represent.

While the book is predominantly celebratory, it does not shy away from addressing the challenges Obama faced. She reflects on the incessant commentary regarding her physical appearance, from the fixation on her toned arms to the controversy dubbed “shorts-gate,” where she faced backlash for wearing shorts during a family vacation. These reflections add depth to the narrative, highlighting the often intrusive nature of public scrutiny.

Critically, "The Look" is not a deep dive into the complexities of fashion politics or a rigorous analysis of sartorial choices. Instead, it serves as a delightful homage to the pleasures and power of glamour. As noted by Kirkus Reviews, the book is “Not so deep, but a delightful tip of the hat to the pleasures—and power—of glamour.” ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/michelle-obama/the-look-2/?utm_source=openai)) This approach makes the book accessible to a broad audience, offering inspiration and insight without overwhelming the reader with technicalities.

In conclusion, "The Look" is a meticulously curated celebration of Michelle Obama's style journey. It underscores the intentionality behind her fashion choices and the broader implications of personal style as a form of communication and empowerment. For those interested in the intersection of fashion, identity, and public life, this book is a compelling addition to their collection.

Recommendation: Highly recommended!

written on: 11/13/2025