Michelle Obama has been a champion of American fashion since that moment she wore Narciso Rodriguez the night husband Barack won the presidential election in 2008. She’s been an ambassador of style throughout her time as FLOTUS- taking a high-low approach to fashion from J.Crew to Ralph Lauren. It isn’t just American designers she supports – think Alaïa or Balenciaga. Kicking off Black History Month, we salute Michelle Obama’s influence on fashion.

Editor’s Note: In honor of Black History Month, we highlight some of the most influential forces in fashion, in no specific order. Their impact on the culture is undeniable – and we use this time to tip our hats off to their Black excellence.