doi:10.7916/3ytb-5r04Oral history interview with Meredith J. Koop, 2021Koop, Meredithoral historiesmixed materialPresidents--United StatesFashion--Political aspectsClothing and dress--Political aspectsFashion--History--21st centuryPresidents' spouses--Clothing and dressAfrican American women--Political activity--21st centuryKoop, MeredithObama, BarackObama, Michelle, 1964- ClothingObama, Michelle, 1964- InfluenceMeredith Koop reflects on her service as style advisor and aide to First Lady Michelle Obama throughout all eight years of the Obama presidency. Koop recounts the development of her relationship with Michelle Obama, outlines her activities and responsibilities in the White House, and speaks widely about her approach to styling the first lady. She describes Mrs. Obama's emphasis on working with lesser-known designers and designers from underrepresented communities, and considers notable issues with which she was closely involved, including the first lady's foreign travel and sartorial diplomacy; racialized coverage and scrutiny of Mrs. Obama; comparisons between Mrs. Obama and previous first ladies; the processes by which the first lady made styling decisions; the public reception of, and interest in, Mrs. Obama's fashion; and the West Wing staff's understanding of the importance of fashion. Also discussed are the development and evolution of Koop's relationships with Michelle Obama and the first family; the October 2014 Fashion Education Workshop, which was organized through the first lady's Reach Higher initiative; the unique considerations involved when styling for campaign appearances; and the selection of the dress Michelle Obama wore for her official portrait by Amy Sherald