Michelle Obama's Post-White House Style Says Confident, Happy, and in Charge

Updated on 2/19/2018 at 12:00 PM

Michelle Obama might not be first lady anymore, but that doesn't mean we've stopped tracking her style. In fact, we're focused on her looks now more than ever given her elusive public appearances. While we won't see her in designer dresses at state dinners or on tours, we have been gifted with some amazing post-White House ensembles.

She packed two daring one-shouldered tops for an Italian vacation and wore outfits that reminded us why she became a fashion icon in the first place. Michelle doesn't have to dress solely for the public anymore — unless she goes to a fancy event — but she always makes it a point to keep her choices stylish and tasteful.

That's a quality this former first lady will always be remembered for, and it's one she shares with the women before her. If you thought Michelle's best looks ended with her White House run, you're sorely mistaken. Read on for proof she's in the style game for the long haul.

March 2017

Michelle left Upland restaurant in New York City wearing business-casual attire. The former first lady tucked her multicolored button-down into a pair of black pants and covered up in a deep navy trench for warmth. She accessorized with an edgy but chic Alexander Wang bag, and heels completed her put-together ensemble.

April 2017

For one of her first public speech appearances post-White House, Michelle stepped out in a colorblock dress by Lafayette 148. The midi dress hit right above her ankles to show off a pair of lace-up block heels. Her neutral palette of black, white, and khaki wasn't distracting at all and kept the focus on her speech at the AIA Conference on Architecture.

May 2017

Michelle wore this blue one-shouldered gown to celebrate Barack Obama as the recipient of the 2017 John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. The fabric draped off her right shoulder to the ground. Michelle chose to accessorize with a luxe pair of chandelier earrings, forgoing all other jewelry.

May 2017

For a speech at the Partnership For a Healthier America Summit, Michelle wore a striped asymmetrical blouse and pants. To create definition on top, she effortlessly styled the outfit with a corset belt that cinched in her waist. No accessory is too complicated or bold for this former first lady.

May 2017

For a trip to Italy, Michelle packed her best vacation outfits. She caught everyone's attention in this striped Teija top while walking through the streets of Montalcino with friends. Her bright pink top popped against a pair of crisp white jeans that were slashed at the ankles.

May 2017

Michelle stuck to the off-the-shoulder trend as she wore yet another variation of the style on her Italian vacation. The Club Monaco top was tucked into her forest green trousers and she held onto her Simon Miller mini bag, topping off the look with chic sunglasses.

July 2017

At the 2017 ESPY Awards, Michelle stepped out in a stunning Cushnie et Ochs dress and Jennifer Fisher jewels. The long-sleeved LBD had two slashes in the front and the body-hugging dress came down to her knees. She looked calm and collected, exuding confidence like only she can on stage.