Melania Trump made a striking return to Washington on January 20, 2025, with a bold fashion choice that seemed to speak volumes. As her husband, Donald Trump, was sworn in for his second term as President, the First Lady’s sharply tailored outfit caught the eye, exuding an air of mystery and power.
Her ensemble—a navy silk-wool coat and matching wide-brimmed hat—drew immediate attention and sparked online comparisons to the 1980s video game character, Carmen Sandiego, known for her red trench coat and fedora. The coat, designed by New York-based independent designer Adam Lippes, was paired with an ivory blouse wrapped tightly around her neck, adding a sense of sophistication and elegance to the look.
Lippes, commenting on the outfit, emphasized the craftsmanship involved in creating the piece, proudly highlighting that it was made by some of America’s finest artisans. The First Lady’s hat, a creation by New York milliner Eric Javits, completed the ensemble, adding another layer of statement-making flair.
Some critics, like The Washington Post’s Rachel Tashjian, described Melania’s look as evoking imagery of a "mafia widow" or a "high-ranking member of an obscure religious order," with a touch of "My Fair Lady." Yet, her fashion choices, often scrutinized for hidden meanings, seem to channel a sense of "armor," signaling strength and precision.
As is often the case, Melania’s sartorial choices are more than just about fashion—they are a form of nonverbal communication. Throughout history, first ladies' outfits have been subject to intense analysis, with past controversies, like Rosalynn Carter re-wearing a dress from the 1977 inauguration, sparking debate.
In comparison, other first ladies, such as Jill Biden and Michelle Obama, have chosen independent designers for their inaugural looks—Biden opting for a sparkling blue coat by Markarian in 2021, and Obama making headlines with a lemon-colored Isabel Toledo creation in 2009.
Melania's choice for her first term as First Lady in 2017 channeled the elegance of Jackie Kennedy, with a Ralph Lauren coat and a powder-blue crepe gown. Now, as she begins her second round in the White House, her fashion signals a shift—her look is more commanding, showcasing the refined, sharp tailoring that characterizes her current role.
For her evening appearance at the inaugural ball, she again wore Herve Pierre, her personal stylist, in a white column gown adorned with sculptural black ribbon detailing and a matching black bejeweled choker. This combination of soft elegance with bold details speaks to a more assertive and empowered version of Melania, embodying a new phase in her public persona.
This fashion statement shows that, in her second term, Melania Trump will continue to use her wardrobe as a tool of power and precision, further cementing her role as a confident and stylish figure in American politics.
