As Melania Trump took on her role as First Lady of the United States once again on January 20, 2025, her presence at Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th President captured the attention of many. The day was marked by various ceremonies and celebrations, with Melania consistently by Donald’s side. However, it was her striking outfit, particularly one notable piece, that became the center of extensive discussion and analysis.
The Trumps’ return to the White House signifies the commencement of Donald’s second presidential term. The events of the day were markedly different from the inaugural ceremony in 2017, emphasizing a polished and self-assured image. Melania’s demeanor also exhibited a notable change this time. Body language analysts noted her composed and neutral expression, which stood in contrast to the more animated and approachable persona she presented in 2017.
Body language expert Judi James remarked that Melania’s attire was crucial in conveying her intentions as First Lady during this term. The elegantly tailored navy silk wool coat, paired with a navy skirt and an ivory silk crepe blouse designed by Adam Lippes, radiated sophistication and professionalism. However, it was her wide-brimmed hat, crafted by Eric Javits, that truly captured attention. This hat projected an air of mystery and authority, symbolizing a “woman who means business,” as highlighted by James. Beneath its brim, Melania’s confident smile and partially concealed eyes contributed an enigmatic aspect to her presence, contrasting sharply with her previous appearances as First Lady.
During significant moments of the inauguration, Melania’s body language reflected a sense of unity with her husband, according to James. “As they depart the service, Donald and Melania enhance their clasped hands into a more pronounced display of solidarity,” James noted. Donald even elevated their joined hands as they walked, signaling pride and mutual support. In contrast, Melania maintained a serene and regal demeanor, concealing her emotions behind the wide-brimmed hat.
Melania’s fashion selections not only garnered admiration but also ignited controversy and humor across social media platforms. Critics on sites such as X (formerly Twitter) made light of her hat, with one user commenting, “She looks like she’s going to a funeral,” while another quipped, “She’s mourning America.” These remarks underscored the divisive nature of her position as First Lady and the public’s intense interest in her every action.
Despite the attention her attire received, Melania encountered difficulties behind the scenes in curating her wardrobe. During Donald Trump’s initial term, well-known designers like Tom Ford and Marc Jacobs publicly declined to dress her. For the 2025 inauguration, Women’s Wear Daily reported that several prominent designers opted out of collaborating with her, compelling Melania’s team to navigate the fashion industry’s contentious landscape. French designer Hervé Pierre, who has previously collaborated with Melania, recounted facing backlash for his association with the Trumps. He shared an experience of being told he was “not welcome” at a designer store in New York City, despite being a paying customer. Nonetheless, he commended European designers for their willingness to work with her, viewing it as a business opportunity.
Eric Javits, the designer responsible for Melania’s now-iconic hat, expressed his pride in collaborating with her. “Creating a hat for Mrs. Trump was one of the greatest honors of my career,” he stated, emphasizing that her remarkable bone structure and sense of style made the design process seamless. Javits noted that his artistic background enabled him to create a hat that complemented and enhanced her natural features.
During the day’s events, Donald Trump even made a lighthearted remark about the hat. While speaking at Emancipation Hall, he joked that the hat nearly flew away in the wind as Melania stood close to a military helicopter. “She almost blew away,” he laughed. “She was being elevated off the ground.”
As Donald and Melania embark on their second term in the White House, they are poised to enter a new chapter filled with notable developments.
As the Trumps embark on their second term in the White House, Melania’s fashion selections and public presence are certain to captivate public interest. Her meticulously chosen outfits and graceful engagements ensure that she remains a focal point of discussion, reflecting her distinctive interpretation of the First Lady’s role.
