Everyday Icon: Michelle Obama and the Power of Style

by Kate Betts

In many ways the world has never seen a First Lady like Michelle Obama. From the precedent of her race to the singularity of her style, she has been the object of immense fascination. What she says, what she does, and not least, what she wears, is scrutinized around the world.

Writing at the crossroads of politics and fashion, Kate Betts explains why Michelle Obama’s style matters, and how she has helped liberate a generation of women from the false idea that style and substance are mutually exclusive. Following the transformation of Mrs. Obama from her early days on the campaign trail to her first state dinner at the White House, Betts, a longtime fashion journalist and former editor in chief of Harper’s Bazaar, reminds us that while style can be expressed in what you wear, it is inextricably bound up in who you are and what you believe in. In a smart, breezy voice backed by extensive interviews and historical research, Betts shows how Michelle Obama’s  bold confidence and self-possession have made her into an icon and transformed the way women see themselves, their roles, and their own style.

With two hundred color photographs, original designer sketches, and historical images, Everyday Icon is not only a lavish tour of our First Lady’s style statements, but also a fascinating behind-the-scenes account of how she created her image and, more important, what that image says about American style today. Much has been written about Michelle Obama, but Kate Betts places her in a broader cultural and historical context; Everyday Icon is the definitive book on how a working mother of two became an unforgettable, global style icon.

Genres: Fashion, Nonfiction, Design, Politics

256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2011

Reviews

[Shannan · Rating 1 out of 5]

I feel bad saying that I read this book, because I really didn't. This book is thick and solid - wordy wordy chapters. I found it difficult to get into the book. I guess I was looking at more of a picto-biography of Michelle Obama's style and how she shows her womanhood through her choices in style and manner. But you have to sit and read read read in order to get the author's idea of what Obama's style is. Blah! After being bored off my goard int he first few chapters, I flipped through to the pictues in the book and even those weren't that grand. This book is not for the casual reader. But don't worry, I still adore you First Lady Obama and think you always look and act fabulous!

[Ruci Tukana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Though I admire the former Ist Lady, I feel this book is not thoroughly compiled!

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a surprising book. I thought it was going to focus on Michelle Obama and instead it was about the history of first ladies and how fashion and personal style played a role in the presidency.

[Krystal Esmi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady O's fashion changed the game. Go, Michelle!!

[Adrienna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I typically do not read or care much about fashion; yet for the last two years I have been watching shows on fashion and definitely watch what Michelle wear after inauguration. She represents classy, conservative, and glamor all in one. Yet the author stresses "confidence" and "power" is showcased in her style(s). She stresses that usually you have to choose one: to define focus/sensibility by working for shoes/bags or work for peace, but not both.

I am learning that style, we are judged by our appearance and people can easily make assumptions based on what you are wearing, instead of by our content of character quoted by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Kate Betts adds that style is a part of the content of one's character. Now I am more concerned about fashion and style than ever before once I got older, and gathering a sense of it. I have maternal and paternal grandmothers who do care about how they dress, and what's lady-like, even though others would view them as old-school church ladies. I always compliment them and their knack for style.

The book earlier emphasizes Michelle Obama's style and how it matters--her power of style that liberates a generation of women. Ultimately, style is more than how we look or what we wear, should express who we are and what we believe in. It reflects our values. Illuminates desire to impress, this is a civilizing force. Author suggests these pointers in the first chapter or so. Furthermore she showcases all the other first ladies and their style, representation, and other reasoning for their fashion like Hillary Clinton concerned about her career instead of motherhood and dressing to represent first lady role.

I cared about style, but haven't kept up too much with fashion except fashion shows I've watched on TV in the past year or so. Some have a knack (for fashion and style), others lack, and I just fall back.

Confident with who you are and what you believe in instead of so much what you wear. Yet we feel confident and know our confidence sometimes stems from what we wear. I know when I dress business/dressy apparel, I feel confident and bold than in a pair of jeans and t-shirt.

Tips taken from the book:
Be smart and frugal
Stylist advising what to wear to highlight your complexion and your confidence
new wardrobe can give a new persona
trained sales can offer tailoring service and help with styles; can be considered as "special client"

I also learned about Ann Lowe who designed for First Lady's Administration during the 50s to 60s. However the highlight of this book is the Fashion 10 Commandments of the First Lady. Also reading the startling news that she had to bring her daughter to a job interview since she didn't have a babysitter but got the job! She is a remarkable woman. Although this book focuses on fashion, style, and what-not, it also gives glimpses of her political, social and economical views or stories.


Leisure read 2014

I am reading the eBook version and unable to find that version here on Goodreads.

Adrienna Turner
www.dream4more.org

[Keirstan · Rating 4 out of 5]

First Lady Michelle Obama has become quite a polarizing figure, thought not always for political reasons. As former Harper’s Bazaar editor Kate Betts discusses in her new book, Everyday Icon: Michelle Obama and the Power of Style, Obama has quietly made a name for herself as a pioneer on the front of personal style. Betts, in her interesting look at the current First Lady’s sense of style and reflection on the women who held the post before her, succeeds in starting a thought-provoking discussion on style while treating her readers to the fantastic images that inspired it.

Michelle Obama, as Betts puts it, succeeds in “taking Hillary's intellect and dressing it in Jackie's pearls”. Essentially, Betts argues with this quote and throughout the rest of the book, that Michelle Obama is the epitome of the Postfeminist Woman. She has not only staked a claim for herself in the still male-dominated professional world, but she remains confident enough in herself to celebrate her femininity at the same time.

Interspersed throughout the book are, of course, fabulous photographs of the First Lady and her enviable wardrobe. Complementing these photos are images of the designers’ sketches that preceded them. These images are so alluring that if you’re anything like me, you will find yourself jumping ahead for a peek at the next tranche of photos!

Overall, I found Everyday Icon to be strikingly similar to its inspiration: chock full of both style and substance. This is recommended reading for anyone with an interest in fashion and style.

[Louise Silk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Former Harper’s Bazaar editor, Kate Betts, presents a thought-provoking discussion of style and its place in politics. The book has fabulous photographs of the First Lady and designer sketches that clearly detail the process of using fashion as a powerful political tool.

The book does more that cover Michele Obama. I particularly appreciated the historical portion of the book that details the place of dress and style with each of the First Ladies, using that information to lead into how Michelle Obama's conscious decisions about her style have make her a polarizing figure in the world of fashion. Who else could put J. Crew and Target on the map?

Betts proves that Michelle Obama is the best of our contemporary models mixing femininity with power and purpose succeeding in “taking Hillary's intellect and dressing it in Jackie's pearls”. It's great info and and easy fun read.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good reading choice for me after having just finished The Residence a short while ago.This book mentioned briefly about certain First Ladies, who were mentioned in greater detail in The Residence.

Basically, this book uses 764 pages (according to my OverDrive app) to illustrate one point - how style and substance are not mutually exclusive, and that style could be an embodiment of substance.

This book was inspiring in that it encouraged me to reflect on my attitudes towards fashion and encouraged me to take greater care of myself and relook at my style to let it be more reflective of who I am.

But I found that this book was not being succinct and was too long-winded in spending 764 pages to talk about one point. I think the topic would be more suitable as an essay rather than as a book.

[Deanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Style has so much more influence on our lives than most of us would like to admit, yet most of the literature on it is removed from the lives we lead or we are given the subtle message that either one is a woman of substance or an obsessed, frivolous airhead. It is difficult finding that balance that acknowledges brains AND beauty in one feminine person. I liked the way this book confirmed that feeling good in your clothes conveys confidence and confidence is sexy and allows less self-conscious interactions. We should be beyond the "Dress for Success" mandates or we will forever look like poor imitations of little men.

[Crystal Hammon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing First Lady. She looked comfortable, confident, and appropriate meeting the Queen of England in a cardigan and skirt. How did she pull it off? By being comfortable, confident, and appropriate, proving once and for all that authenticity is the very essence of personal style. Betts has written a well-researched book filled with sketches, photographs, and interviews that chronicle Michelle Obama’s approachable yet refined sense of style. This book is endowed with historical and political perspective, broadening its appeal to include readers who aren’t that into fashion. It's a feast for the eyes and inspiration for every woman’s heart.

[MB (What she read) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Basically this is an extended essay on both Michelle Obama and the history of U.S. First Ladies and their clothing choices. I found it interesting if mostly 'puffily' optimistic. I've always respected Mrs. Obama's clothing choices in their colorfulness and suitablity for her body type.

I will say this is pretty slight and could have used WAY more pictures over a longer scope of time. The text to photos ratio is too slight imo. This is a beautifully designed book however and very attractive in its layout.

[Larisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate Betts does a nice job with this book for anyone who enjoys fashion, style in the political arena and history. It is a fun read, then great conversation piece to add to your coffee table books, and would make a fun high school or college graduation gift. It was fun taking the history journey of past First Ladies and their style.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this look at Michelle Obama's style and substance. Betts really makes the case (through Mrs. Obama) that you can have both at the same time. Of course loved all the clothing shots, but it is also part biography, part history of First Ladies.

[Stefanie]

Excellent book on First Lady Michelle Obama's unique style. Also touches on the power of style and dress in everyday life. I found it fascinating and inspiring.

[Vanessa · Rating 2 out of 5]

the photos were purty. the text was fashion magazine quality...not really that substantive or interesting.

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am very impressed by & proud of Mrs. Obama

[Sarah Whitten · Rating 2 out of 5]

A reminder that true style is all about the confidence one has...and Michelle Obama’s role that contributed in her historic reputation.

[Leslie Goddard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I already thought highly of Michelle Obama prior to this book, but this insightful overview of her style gave much greater appreciation for her savvy use of style to convey/construct/maintain her substance. The book does an excellent job of pointing out what makes Obama’s fashion unique and noteworthy — her skillful blending of the casual and the stylish, her use of color, her willingness to take chances, her ability to hit the right note between being appropriate and not being boring. But more than that, it points out how the style is a manifestation of Obama’s true substance. You can learn a lot about who she is as a person through her stylistic choices. I especially enjoyed how the book nicely lays out what makes her a great role model in fashion reflects what makes her a great role model as an African-American woman.

The book would have been stronger had it been more solidly grounded in history, although that’s probably not surprising, since the author has a background with Harper’s Bazaar, not in history.

Still, there are some odd moments, like when she mentions Dolley Madison rolling Easter eggs (a tradition that began in the late 19th century, some 70 years after the Madison’s era). The chapter surveying first ladies’ history has some notable eye-brow raising moment. She tries to put every prior First Lady into a “substance” or “style” box, which is awkward to say the least. Dolley Madison, in this view, falls squarely into the “style” category, which anyone who has studied James Madison’s political weaknesses will worry about. Jackie Kennedy falls into the “style” box as well, despite an insightful mention of how Kennedy’s public image helped construct our broader cultural memory of the Kennedy years, something that has substance and heft, as Kennedy herself had hoped.

She sees Mamie Eisenhower as dowdy, apparently oblivious to the fact that Eisenhower regularly made the best-dressed lists in her era. Mamie helped launch the decade’s love for soft pink, yes, but she was also gave huge popularity to trends like charm bracelets, short bangs, and coordinated purses, shoes, and belts. Sure, 1950s fashions have not aged well, but seeing Mamie purely as “dowdy” overlooks the fact that much of her popularity lay in her ability to embody the look and style of the 1950s average American housewife, an everywoman that millions could relate to.

Most surprisingly of all, though, she puts Betty Ford into the “substance” category. Yes, Ford did have substance in her forward-thinking viewpoints; she notably supported the ERA and was outspoken in her support for abortion rights. She is a genuine role model as a woman who was courageous and true to herself. But she is also the only First Lady who worked in fashion (this book seems oblivious to that fact) and did a remarkable job navigating the tricky world of mid-1970s fashion. Ford’s styles always struck me as up-to-the-minute but also tailored to her — her love of bold color reflecting her courageous ness and outspokenness and her predilection for soft, comfortable fabrics and cuts reflecting her disdain for political stuffiness. Her fashion was as courageous and true to herself as her viewpoints were.

Seeing Obama as the first and only First Lady who has managed to bring together style and substance is not only overly simplistic, it does a disservice to Obama herself. I would have liked for this excellent overview of Obama’s style to have had more insight into the complex world First Ladies gave always had to navigate between balancing style and substance.

[Kathleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book starts off strong comparing and contrasting fashions of the First Ladies throughout history, but once the book focuses exclusively on Michelle Obama it quickly got repetitive.

I wish it had been published later so that there would be some discussion of Melanie Trump and her White House fashion. It would have been an interesting addition.

[Autumn Kearney · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would have given this book at least four stars when I first read this book in early 2014. Now it seems so outdated. I still enjoy the text and the message that it conveys. Clothes are important because people are judgmental. As the saying goes you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

[Sherry R Markey]

Great book. I've always admired Mrs. Obama's great innate sense of fashion; Mrs. Obama knows what clothes look great on her. She is up there with my greatest fashion icons- Audrey Hepburn, Jackie O, Blake Lively, Alexa Jung, and Ree Drummond. (I've always had an eccelect sense of fashion.)

[Kimber Buelow- 561 Bookgirl · Rating 3 out of 5]

The topic was fascinating. Unfortunately, the writing was dense and it felt. little like the student pushing to get the 10 page thesis but really had only 6 pages of information.