Melania Trump, set to return as first lady soon, has yet to embrace a narrative through her fashion choices. Throughout President-elect Donald Trump’s first term, the Slovenian-born former model consistently appeared polished and elegant in her towering Louboutin stilettos and impeccably tailored Christian Dior skirt suits. However, her wardrobe seemed lacking in depth, save for a few notable instances: like the bold fuchsia pussybow blouse worn shortly after her husband made controversial remarks about women, or the “I Don’t Really Care, Do U?” Zara jacket she wore to visit a shelter for immigrant children at the US-Mexico border (she later explained the message was aimed at the leftwing media).
During a visit to the border in 2018, Melania’s choice of a Zara jacket with a provocative message sparked attention. – Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images
Despite the tradition of many first ladies supporting American fashion, Melania favored luxury European brands like Valentino, Versace, and Chanel. Her official portrait as first lady even featured a black tuxedo jacket from Dolce & Gabbana. While her husband emphasized buying American-made products, Melania rarely showcased domestically made attire after her Ralph Lauren inauguration outfit. This departure from the norm raised eyebrows and was seen as a possible sign of disrespect.
There was debate about how much influence Melania had in her fashion decisions. Dressing the first lady is a coveted achievement for American designers, but Melania faced challenges due to her husband’s divisive politics, which caused some liberal-leaning designers to distance themselves. Despite this, Melania often chose off-the-rack pieces from retailers like Net-a-Porter.
As Melania prepares to resume her role as first lady, the fashion industry’s stance on her remains unclear. Many top American designers who have dressed previous first ladies declined to comment on their willingness to dress Melania.
Fashion designers have varied responses when it comes to working with the First Lady. Ralph Lauren, who was recently awarded the presidential medal of freedom by the Biden administration and created her first inauguration coat in 2017, did not provide a comment. On the other hand, a spokesperson for the eponymous label of Oscar de la Renta, whose designs have been worn by every presidential wife since Jackie Kennedy, expressed that the brand is always honored to dress the First Lady and aims to make her look and feel her best, regardless of politics. Smaller, emerging designers may show more enthusiasm in dressing the incoming first lady, but it seems that it is not a priority for Trump.
During the election night last November, Trump chose to wear a Christian Dior skirt suit while accompanying President-elect Donald Trump and their son Baron at the Palm Beach Convention Center.
Regardless of designers’ participation in sourcing, styling, or designing outfits, the incoming First Lady has the freedom to wear whatever she desires. It is evident that she puts effort into looking her best, with the Washington Post’s fashion writer Rachel Tashjian describing her style as someone who enjoys shopping at Neiman Marcus.
Melania Trump’s fashion choices are driven by her personal taste and preference for clothes. Although some in Washington are eager to see her outfits, there are differing opinions on whether fashion should be intertwined with politics. Despite potential interest from American-made fashion houses, it may be too late for them to make a significant impact, according to some industry experts.
As the upcoming term approaches, speculation arises about Melania Trump’s fashion choices and public appearances. Some suggest that she may choose to be more selective in her engagements and events. The First Ladies Association for Research and Education predicts that she may have a lighter schedule compared to previous First Ladies.
Fashion designer McLemore suggests that Melania Trump should consider the symbolism of her clothing choices and the image she wants to portray. Her preference for European luxury brands is well-known, as seen in her attire at various events.
In conclusion, Melania Trump’s fashion choices continue to spark interest and debate, highlighting the unique challenges and expectations faced by the First Lady in terms of style and public appearance.
Conventional tailoring often carries significant weight in public perception. “I suspect when we elect a woman president of the United States, the first gentleman is not going to be tortured too much over the kind of suit he wears,” noted Gutgold. Throughout history, first ladies have grappled with the challenge of pleasing various factions with their attire choices, irrespective of the era or political affiliation. “I remember Nancy Reagan facing criticism for her selection of upscale clothing,” Gutgold recalled. Similarly, Rosalynn Carter drew ire from designers when she opted to re-wear a dress to Jimmy Carter’s 1977 inauguration. “She chose to (re)wear the dress from her husband’s gubernatorial inauguration, a decision driven by her fondness for it and her thrifty nature. However, this move sent American designers into a frenzy,” Gutgold elaborated.
Even the revered Jackie Kennedy, known for her impeccable and timeless style, occasionally deviated from the unwritten rule of exclusively donning American fashion. “She acknowledged the need for fashion diplomacy,” stated Gutgold, “and leaned towards American designers, though not exclusively. On the tragic day of her husband’s assassination, as seared in our memories, she was clad in a pink Chanel suit.”
In the case of Melania Trump, the scrutiny intensifies due to a perceived double standard. “She exudes beauty and dresses in a highly fashionable manner,” observed McLemore. “Consequently, she remains subject to commentary on not just herself but also her attire.” During a visit to Egypt in 2018, the incoming first lady donned an all-white Chanel pantsuit. At the Republican National Convention in July, she chose to re-wear a Christian Dior double-breasted, form-fitting skirt suit from her wardrobe.
Bennett concurs that Trump appears less relatable compared to her predecessors. While media coverage extensively detailed her expensive ensembles, Jill Biden’s down-to-earth fashion sense earned praise. “Jill’s taste leans towards luxury,” noted Bennett, “but due to her ‘Jill from Philly’ persona, she presents it differently. Yet, it remains a $5,000 dress even for an elementary school visit.”
Delving into Trump’s image construction provides a glimpse into the worldview of a figure often shrouded in mystery. With limited press interactions and sparse speeches for interpretation, observers are left with dissecting her meticulously crafted exterior. “For someone who has been associated with Donald Trump for over two decades, it can be challenging to have one’s voice heard,” shared Bennett. “The presence of the person next to you can be overpowering. Hence, finding alternative ways to capture attention becomes crucial, and I believe she has been successful in this endeavor.”
Gutgold envisions a future where optics carry less weight. “I believe it would signify progress if the president’s spouse could express themselves freely,” she expressed. “However, visual elements play a significant role in American and global politics
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