Melania Trump made quite the fashion statement on January 20, 2025, as she accompanied her husband, Donald Trump, for his second presidential inauguration. The former model donned a stunning navy ensemble custom-made by American designer Adam Lippes, which included a double-breasted coat and matching pencil skirt. But it was the accompanying wide-brimmed hat by Eric Javits, with its white trim, which sparked both intrigue and stir on social media.
Public responses to Melania's outfit varied greatly, with some praising her classic look, reminiscent of previous First Ladies who opted for traditional styles, and others mockingly comparing her ensemble to mournful attire. While Lippes stated, "The tradition of the presidential inauguration embodies the beauty of American democracy and today we had the honor to dress our first lady, Mrs. Melania Trump,” many online commentators noted how her wide-brim hat obscured her face during one of the most public days of her career.
Unlike her powder blue Ralph Lauren dress and coat from 2017—a look often associated with Jackie Kennedy—Melania's 2025 outfit marked her bold departure toward darker and more understated attire. Style experts, including Emma McClendon from St. John's University, pointed out this approach might represent not only trendy fashion but also potentially signify Melania’s choice to revive older codes of dressing. McClendon noted, “The inauguration does not exist in a vacuum. This is not her first time around. Fashion is like physics for reaction.”
The wide-brimmed hat—an accessory not commonly seen at inaugurations since Nancy Reagan wore one in 1985—turned heads on January 20, spurring discussions among fashion circles. “This hat could be pivotal,” McClendon added. “Hats have not been part of American women’s wardrobes for decades, but perhaps we’ll see shoppers becoming interested once more.” Melania’s choice reflects not just personal taste but could hint at larger shifts within American fashion trends.
Despite mixed opinions, many still admired Melania’s outfit. Jayme Franklin, founder and CEO of the Conservateur, remarked, "She’s one of the most beautiful women who’ve ever graced the White House,” aligning her style with elegance and sophistication. Social media, meanwhile, was rife with more scathing criticisms, with one user stating, "It looks like she’s going to a funeral” and another proclaiming, “It’s giving 90s Italian mobster.” Such comments highlight the polarized public opinion about her fashion choices.
Critics even suggested Melania appeared overly reserved, using the veil of her hat as protection against public scrutiny. Some likened her demeanor to incognito mode, observing, “She seemed to be wearing her outer layers like protection.” This led to speculation about how her style reflects not only her personal preferences but also her intended approach to her role as First Lady during her husband’s second term.
Amongst these discussions, the question arises: what does Melania’s fashion say about the future image of First Ladies? With her wearing pieces crafted by lesser-known American designers, she seems intent on supporting domestic talent, potentially reshaping the American fashion narrative. Fashion trends often echo cultural sentiments, and this may be significant for women everywhere as they assess what styles resonate with contemporary ideas of femininity.
Rounding off the day, spectators noted the charm of the broader gathering around the inauguration. Outgoing First Lady Jill Biden’s choice of purple served as subtle symbolism for bipartisanship, marking her departure from the White House. The vibrancy of her attire contrasted sharply with Melania’s muted navy. These distinctions embody the shifting dynamics between different political eras and the public personas of their respective occupants.
Melania’s high-profile fashion choices are set against underlying narratives familiar to those following the dynamics surrounding the Trumps. Her occasional presence juxtaposed with her husband’s commanding emphasis may give insight not only to her personal brand but also how First Ladies convey visibility, engagement, and the symbols of enduring style.
While general reaction to Melania’s look swings dramatically—from the high praise of her haute couture to the cheeky comments comparing her to breakfast mandates like the McDonald’s Hamburglar—the global community continues to watch what choices she makes. Each piece serves as more than mere attire; it becomes part of the larger narrative surrounding the White House and the impression left during this new tenure.
How this exceptional day will influence Melania’s style choices moving forward remains to be seen. Will she embrace showing off her personality through her garments more boldly, or will she lean back toward the shadows as suggested during the inauguration, representing quiet strength rather than flare? With the world watching, and feelers already out for the next high-fashion statement, it won't be long before we know the answer.