Michelle Obama on Fashion with Malia & Sasha

We all know Michelle Obama as a global style icon, but it turns out even fashion royalty has to navigate teenage fashion critiques! The former First Lady recently opened up about her “shared fashion story” with her daughters, Malia and Sasha, revealing that they weren’t always fans of her sophisticated style when they were younger.

Teenage Tastes vs. Designer Dreams

During a live recording for her podcast series, “IMO: The Look,” which accompanies her new book “The Look,” Mrs. Obama shared some relatable anecdotes. She recalled offering Sasha an Alaia dress, only to be met with a teen’s indifference: “Why would I want that?” It seems Malia and Sasha, who are now 27 and 24, were more drawn to the trends of their peers during their White House years.

Obama humorously described their teenage phase, mentioning brands like Brandy Melville and their preference for “stuff off of the web” and “the mall.” To them, designer clothes were simply “for old people.” It’s a sentiment many parents can likely relate to as their children develop their own sense of style!

A New Appreciation for Mom’s Closet

Now that Malia and Sasha are young women embarking on their own careers – Malia as a filmmaker and Sasha as a recent college graduate – their perspective has shifted. “They go in my closet a lot,” Michelle Obama shared with a smile. “As they get older, they’re starting to respect what I have.”

She finds it “fun” to watch them develop their unique styles, noting how different they are as individuals. The tables have turned, and now they’re often asking each other, “Where’d you get that?” This mutual appreciation is creating a beautiful “shared fashion story” for the family.

Embracing Authenticity and Generational Influence

Beyond her daughters’ influence on her wardrobe, Michelle Obama also spoke about how the younger generation has inspired her personal style, particularly her decision to wear braids more often in her post-White House life. She sees this as a way to support young Black girls embracing their natural hair and seeking authenticity.

Obama proudly stated, “I know that me being Michelle Obama, the first former First Lady wearing braids in the White House, matters.” She credits the younger generation for pushing boundaries and wants to encourage them to “continue to be themselves and show up in ways that make sense.”