Michelle Obama Does Summer Stripes on Martha’s Vineyard

Michelle Obama joined journalist Michele Norris, senior contributing editor for MSNBC and founder of The Race Card Project, at the Martha’s Vineyard Author Series on Sunday, where they discussed the former First Lady’s book, The Look.

During the conversation, Michelle recalled the fierce media spotlight placed on her clothing choices – and her body itself -during Barack Obama’s campaigns and presidency. Fashion may have been the subject of the evening, but her own outfit gave us plenty to discuss too.

The former First Lady looked as elegant as ever wearing a Carolina Herrera striped halterneck midi dress from the Pre-Fall 2026 collection by Wes Gordon.

The ivory and racing-green stripes, halterneck and full skirt make this such a great summer dress, particularly for Martha’s Vineyard. It has the ease you want for an island setting while still feeling appropriate for an event where she was discussing a book devoted to her own style evolution.

Her style is always on point, but it has been especially interesting to see how it has evolved since leaving the White House. There is more freedom in the way she dresses now, and this breezy summer look is a perfect example.

You’ll notice that Michelle opted not to wear the contrasting belt seen in the Carolina Herrera lookbook, and I think that was absolutely the right choice. The belt breaks up the stripes and adds a focal point the dress doesn’t need. On Michelle, allowing those stripes to run uninterrupted makes for a much cleaner finish.

Jimmy Choo Elsy sandals completed the look.

Stylist: Thomas Christos Kikis

FTC Disclaimer: Keep in mind that I may receive commissions when you click links and make purchases. However, this does not impact my reviews.