Michelle Obama's Gloomy Podcast Outfit Is A Rare Style Miss For The First Lady Of Fashion

Michelle Obama is back in the pop culture zeitgeist thanks to a podcast she is co-hosting with her brother, "IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson." Since Michelle has always been known for having excellent taste, there's no doubt we'll be tuning in for her takes on everything from entertainment to business.

But, great taste notwithstanding, Obama made something of a misstep with an unusually drab ensemble for a March 2025 podcast episode featuring Keke Palmer. Though the former First Lady is often known for bright colors and eye-catching patterns, her color choice for that OOTD was surprisingly subdued and something of a let down for anyone who has been following her style. After all, Obama is a woman who hasn't been afraid to take a few big fashion risks, and she's still working with the same stylist, Meredith Koop, who helped her build her fashion forward image. Naturally, Michelle's style has evolved since she left The White House but that's no excuse for this lifeless ensemble.

Despite the designer labels, this muted color palette is a surprisingly dull choice for this political figure turned podcast host. From the khaki skirt to the sage green sweater set, there's just not much here to feel excited about. How can this possibly be the same Michelle Obama who delighted everyone with her playful, unusual Narcisco Rodriguez dress on election night in 2008?

It's not a bad fit, per se. But we've come to expect bolder and brighter from the former First Lady, who loves rich jewel tones and even a well-placed metallic. She's known for favoring new, independent designers and fun patterns. While the sweater might be Balmain, its a bit underwhelming. The gold buttons add a hint of visual interest to this flat color palette but they don't look fresh so much as seeming like an afterthought pulled right out of the '80s. The biggest bummer? The long sleeve cardigan hides Obama's signature toned arms.