In the final phase of the 2024 presidential race, what one wears during the campaign is all-important: whether worn by the party's candidate or by the most notable supporters, attire can emphasize or amplify a candidate's message in the final battle for the American vote. So when Michelle Obama attended Vice President Kamala Harris' rally in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on October 26, and delivered an impassioned speech focused on reproductive rights, she and her stylist, Meredith Koop, 10 days before the election, must have pondered her attire must have pondered over her attire.

They chose Theory's tortoiseshell suit, consisting of a single-breasted blazer and slim-fitting pants. Underneath, Mrs. Obama wore a custom version of Theory's silk top, adorned with gold Jennifer Fisher hoop earrings, low black pumps, and a long braided ponytail. The color scheme was neutral, but the message behind it was anything but.

In a nearly 40-minute speech, Michelle Obama tapped Vice President Harris as the most qualified champion for women's rights in the 2024 presidential election. 'By every measure, she has proven she is ready,' Obama said. The real question is, as a nation, are we ready for this moment?”

The former first lady chose a more modest suit than she has attended so far this year and said yes; at the Democratic National Convention in August, she wore a Monse pantsuit with a twisted neckline and a belt at the waist. When he shared on social media that he had completed his mail-in ballot, he wore a Balmain pistachio knit set. These items displayed the playful, designer-centric personal style Mrs. Obama has been exploring since leaving the White House, where she often wore J.Crew cardigans and pencil skirts. For an event that underscored the urgency of an election she deemed “too close” to call in one of the most important states of the Electoral College, Obama knew she needed to appeal to everyday people and show a united front with Kamala Harris. So she chose Theory, a brand that balances sophisticated tailoring with affordable prices and that women across America wear to work every day.

The color and silhouette of Michelle Obama's speech suit is a nod to Kamala Harris' evening look. The tortoiseshell pattern complemented Vice President Harris' preferred neutral suit without getting in the way. Together on stage, they presented a vision of two women casting a vote for a shared future (and a sophisticated approach to politics).

Theory's global CEO Dinesh Tandon told Marie Claire that he was “honored” that Michelle Obama chose Theory for her campaign speech. (She is a gifted orator, but she doesn't often give speeches for candidates.) ) “Mrs. Obama embodies the spirit of confidence and purpose that we hope to inspire in all who wear our clothes. Her words about empowering women and championing their rights resonate with women around the world.” The look she wore to convey those words is no different, and as of press time, her blazer is sold out (though other fall prints are available).