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In many ways, the world has never seen a First Lady like Michelle Obama. From her racial background to her unique style, she has captivated global attention. What she says, does, and wears is closely examined. Writing at the intersection of politics and fashion, Kate Betts explores the significance of Michelle Obama’s style and how she has liberated women from the notion that style and substance cannot coexist. Betts chronicles Mrs. Obama’s evolution from her campaign days to her first state dinner, emphasizing that style is not just about clothing but is deeply connected to identity and beliefs. With a smart and engaging tone, supported by extensive interviews and historical research, Betts illustrates how Michelle Obama’s confidence has transformed her into an icon, reshaping how women perceive themselves and their roles. Featuring two hundred color photographs, designer sketches, and historical images, this work provides a lavish exploration of the First Lady’s style while offering a behind-the-scenes look at how she crafted her image. Betts situates Michelle Obama within a broader cultural context, making this a definitive account of how a working mother of two became a global style icon.