Michelle Obama’s 2009 White House portrait, in a simple sleeveless black dress, sparked a media frenzy over her arms. In her new book The Look, she reflects on how that scrutiny revealed more than fashion—it exposed racial bias, stereotypes, and the pressure on a Black First Lady to fit a narrow mould. Through her style, Obama turned criticism into empowerment, championing underrepresented designers and making each outfit a statement on identity, visibility, and strength. That iconic dress wasn’t just about bare arms—it was a bold act of breaking barriers and reshaping perceptions.