IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson IMO Presents: The Look Live with Wesley Morris
Nov 28, 2025
Wesley Morris, a Pulitzer Prize-winning critic, engages in a lively discussion with Michelle Obama at a live event. Michelle shares her experiences in the East Wing, contrasting her vibrant style with Barack's simplicity. She reflects on fashion choices, including an iconic inaugural gown and a recent shift to pants. The conversation humorously touches on Oprah's gift etiquette and childhood style memories, while also highlighting the cultural significance of her fashion during her White House tenure.
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The Oprah Gift That Was Returned
- Oprah sent Michelle Obama a trunk of Ralph Lauren suits as a thank-you after an interview, but they returned them due to gift rules.
- Oprah later sent the clothes back when Barack was no longer in office so Michelle could keep them.
East Wing As Public-Facing Heart
- Michelle describes the East Wing as a space of color, warmth, and welcome compared with the West Wing's gravity.
- She framed the East Wing as the place for outreach, initiatives, and making the White House feel open to more people.
Inauguration As A Portal
- Michelle recalls the surreal inaugural day routine, from the prayer breakfast to walking out on the Capitol and feeling history.
- She balanced ceremonial weight with mothering duties, watching her daughters during the long, cold day.
