The Michelle Obama Outfits That History Will Never Forget

It was only natural that during Michelle Obama's time as the first lady of the United States, the world was watching every move she made. And her style was as notable as her other important contributions. She championed young and upcoming American designers like Tanya Taylor and Brandon Maxwell; she supported mass brands (where so much of the country shops), including J.Crew and Target; and FLOTUS thoughtfully selected specific designers for special occasions. Remember when she wore that stunning Atelier Versace creation to welcome the Italian Prime Minister and his wife to D.C.?

But since she's left the White House, we find ourselves still keeping track of her looks. Why? Because Obama's place as a style star didn’t stop there. Ahead, see just a few of the former FLOTUS’s standout looks and go-to style that make her an enduring fashion inspiration.

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Tailored Staples Never Do You Wrong
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Style Move: Invest in well-made, perfectly fit separates, like black trousers, a silky button down, and a sleek overcoat. These pieces will never not look polished.

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Clash Prints
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On Michelle Obama: Self-Portrait dress and Jennifer Fisher earrings.

Style Move: Obama has never steered away from bold print or color, but mixing typically mismatched prints feels even more adventurous. 

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Keep Accessories Simple
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On Michelle Obama: Naeem Khan dress.

Style Move: Pare back the accessories when you wear a truly breathtaking creation. 

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Yes, Metallics Are a Neutral
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On Michelle Obama: Givenchy dress.

Style Move: Silver, gold, bronze—these are the most unexpected, and exciting, neutral colors you can wear. Especially when it comes to accessories and footwear.

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Pull Out All the Stops
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On Michelle Obama: Atelier Versace dress.

Style Notes: For the most special of special occasions, go for full head-to-toe sparkle. Just try it once. You'll never go back. 

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Play With Shapes
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On Michelle Obama: 3.1 Phillip Lim sweater.

Style Notes: Step up a classic piece (such as a sweater) with an option that features unique shapes and patterns. 

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Pay Attention to Texture
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On Michelle Obama: Narciso Rodriguez coat.

Style Notes: Advance to monochrome 2.0 by wearing a range of textured fabrics all in a similar hue.

Next, take a trip down memory lane with another high-profile style star, Kate Middleton.

Gina Marinelli
Senior Editor

Who's your style icon?

Taylor Tomasi Hill

Who are your 5 favorite people to follow on Twitter/Instagram?
 
@tamumcpherson @lisasaysgah @therealgracecoddington @everyoutfitonsatc @notmynonni 

What's the fashion essential you can’t live without?
 
A leather jacket.

What's your desert island album?
 
Beyoncé "B'Day." Or pretty much anything Beyoncé.