Former First Lady Michelle Obama has revealed how her husband, former President Barack Obama, occasionally expressed concern over their daughters’ fashion choices during his presidency — only to be told to “let them cook.”
In a candid interview with People magazine about her evolving sense of style and family life in the White House, Michelle shared insights into how the Obamas balanced public life, parenthood, and privacy during Barack’s two presidential terms from 2009 to 2017.
Their daughters, Malia and Sasha, were just eight and ten when the family moved into the White House, instantly becoming global public figures. Michelle recalled the need for the girls to dress appropriately during public appearances, saying they were professionally styled for official events.
“So we had a deal — ‘You work with [my stylist] Meredith [Koop] when dressing for public events,’” she explained. “What’s ‘in’ for a 13-year-old is not acceptable walking down the staircase of Air Force One. When you’re with us, you’re like me, you’re on a job.”
Outside of public engagements, however, the girls were free to choose their own clothes — sometimes leading to light-hearted parental debates. “Barack would be like, ‘Those shorts seem really short.’ And I was like, ‘Don’t say anything. Let them cook,’” Michelle said, reflecting on her husband’s protective instincts.
Michelle also opened up about her marriage, offering a rare glimpse into how she and Barack, married since 1992, keep their relationship strong after 33 years.
The couple make time for regular date nights but prefer to keep them simple. “When we’re both happy about date night, we’re at home. We are not getting dressed. We just have a nice dinner, candles lit, music, we talk,” she said.
Interestingly, the Obamas intentionally avoid speaking to each other throughout the day so that their evening conversations feel fresh. “We don’t talk for the whole day… So, when we are going to have a really special night, it’s like, ‘Don’t talk to me. Save it for dinner,’” Michelle said.
When they do venture out, it’s typically for dinner or a film — but never both. “I am too old. I can’t do dinner and a movie. I will fall asleep in the movie. So it’s like, ‘Let’s pick one,’” she laughed.
Through humour and understanding, the Obamas appear to have found their own formula for balancing family, fame, and a lasting partnership.
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