A 60 Second Image Analysis Of The Obamas’ 60 Minutes Interview

On Sunday, Steve Kroft of 60 Minutes gave an exclusive interview with First-Couple-to-be Barack and Michelle Obama. Barack Obama looked very presidential in a black suit with crisp white shirt and deep red tie. This suit combination works well because it is a flattering and authoritative look for most men. I’m also glad to see he favors slim-cut suits which look better than traditional styles for men with his build. I would like to suggest though, that a more effective suit color would be navy blue. While black definitely denotes authority, it can also be perceived as austere and unapproachable. (So it’s a good thing the President-elect has such a warm and easy-going smile!) Navy blue confers the same authority as black, but with the positive element of trust. This is why police officers wear navy and not black, which might remind people of the Gestapo. When he wears navy the simultaneous contrast naturally adds more color to his face and camouflages the bit of gray he’s begun to show after his historic marathon race to the White House.

Michelle beautifully illustrates this point of color in her classy navy sheath dress. She often chooses simple but elegant styles in solid colors that flatter her skin tone and light up her face. She has a high-fashion hairstyle and a bold multi-strand necklace (although she should try a larger pair of earrings to help frame her face). Her makeup is subtle, and just enough to show off her lovely smile and sparkling eyes.

As far as body language, it is a breath of fresh air to watch a political couple who are obviously very much in love with each other (note the constant hand-holding). Their style of banter is intelligent, respectful and playful as they poke fun at themselves as well as Steve Kroft. They often look one another in the eye and show they are paying attention when the other is speaking.

One last note: President-elect Obama forgot to unbutton his suit jacket while seated. (This would have prevented it from awkwardly bunching up during the interview.) As I’m sure he knows, a gentlemen always buttons his jacket when he stands, but he may unbutton it when he is seated.

By: Sandy Dumont

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Sandy Dumont, THE Image Architect is an image consultant and professional speaker based in Virginia with 30 years of international and national experience helping individuals and Fortune 500 companies improve their image. She conducts customized workshops on a regular basis. For more information, visit www.theimagearchitect.com.