Similar to Nancy Regan, Michelle Obama faced criticism as well for her fashion choices while serving as First Lady. In 2009, while visiting a Food Bank Michelle Obama wore a business casual outfit paired with sneakers. These sneakers cause a frenzy in the media because they were “...$540 Lanvin sneakers…”, according to Vanity Fair. The public was already aware due to previous articles that Michelle Obama enjoyed wearing sneakers, but in the past she only wore Chuck Taylors or Converse in public. When reporters questioned her about her shoe choice that day she simply stated “They’re shoes.”. Her answer was blunt, but resonated with the public because she was unapologetic about her choice in footwear. Many on social media came to her defense that day, pointing out that everything she wears is going to be unfairly critiqued. Whether she wears affordable or expensive sneakers the media will always have something to say, and sometimes all you can really say at that point is “They're shoes.”.
Citation:
https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2017/07/michelle-obama-lanvin-sneakers-controversy
Well some people see what someone wears as communicating something. I think the reason people got upset at her is because they feel like her wearing $540 sneaks is like her saying she is too good for cheaper pairs. They interpret it was a wealth or class thing, and to be fair she has talked a lot about her upbringing in rough Chicago neighborhoods. I personally don't agree, people wear things for a whole number of reason, Michel might have picked those because the sneakers were comfy or because they were a gift.
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