Melania Trump’s return to Washington has sparked a flurry of attention, especially regarding her fashion choice on the day her husband, Donald Trump, was sworn in as president again. The former first lady wore a long navy coat paired with a matching wide-brimmed hat, which shielded her eyes in most photographs, adding an air of mystery to her presence. Her outfit, though elegant, drew comparisons to the 1980s video game character, Carmen Sandiego, known for her long red trench coat and eye-obscuring fedora.
The coat and skirt were designed by Adam Lippes, a New York-based independent designer, and the hat was created by milliner Eric Javits. Melania’s blouse, a tightly wrapped ivory piece, complemented the sleek, structured look. Lippes proudly stated that the outfit was a product of American craftsmanship, a subtle nod to the tradition of supporting U.S. manufacturing.
Critics, including Washington Post’s style columnist Rachel Tashjian, noted that Melania’s outfit gave off an aura reminiscent of a mafia widow or a member of an obscure religious order. Tashjian suggested it also evoked the elegance of “My Fair Lady,” highlighting the bold, yet calculated nature of the ensemble.
The reactions to Melania’s fashion have been mixed. While some have praised her chic, sharp style, others have humorously compared her look to that of the late pop legend Michael Jackson. On social media, users quipped that her outfit made her resemble a “smooth criminal,” a reference to Jackson’s famous song, with one even joking that Melania was “killing it” with a look that was both classy and mysterious.
This look marks a significant shift in Melania’s fashion choices compared to her first tenure as first lady, where she leaned toward more buoyant and glamorous styles, such as the Ralph Lauren outfit she wore for the 2017 inauguration. For her second round in the White House, her wardrobe seems to signal a more steely, precise approach, embracing sharp tailoring and bold, commanding designs.
As first ladies’ sartorial choices are often scrutinized for underlying messages, Melania’s latest ensemble has sparked debate about the power of fashion as a form of political expression, with many interpreting her look as one of strategic armor as she steps into her second role.
