Michelle Obama’s Thoughts on Fashion and Supporting Designers of Color
In a recent roundtable discussion shared on Sunday, former first lady Michelle Obama shared her views on fashion and the importance of supporting designers of color.
She mentioned that when she appreciates someone’s style and knows they are a person of color, she tries to promote them, as long as their clothing is accessible. Her question of the moment was: “What can everyday women do to support designers of color?”
Obama suggested that it might be useful to think more critically about the balance in our wardrobes. “What does our closet look like and who is in it? Who are we supporting?” she asked. She also remarked that if someone can afford luxury brands, they can support a wider variety of designers. She urged caution in shopping habits.
However, that raises some other questions. What about just buying clothes that look good? Are we still permitted to buy from white designers, even if, well, there are ethical concerns? It leaves you pondering President Obama’s perspective.
Michelle Obama looks stunning in Chanel SS26 by Mathieu Blazy! 🗽🔥
Photographed by Digsy.
pic.twitter.com/1FOq5A257d
She noted, “When I wear something, people begin to notice it, and then they see who’s behind the designs. It opens doors for various groups: young black designers, immigrant designers, female designers… Wearing their work highlights something broader about our identity as a country.”
To maintain consistency, one could argue that this principle should apply to all purchases. Here are a few tongue-in-cheek suggestions:
- Consider ditching your iPhone or MacBook. Apple, after all, was co-founded by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. Might want to switch to Huawei instead.
- No more Coca-Cola? The original recipe was created by John Pemberton, a Confederate Colonel, and Asa Griggs Candler, who founded the Coca-Cola Company.
- And let’s not forget about Newman’s Own—sure, they donate all profits to charity, but Paul Newman was white.
These thoughts certainly bring attention to the complexities of consumer choices today.
