Melania’s Bold Style Choices
Trump Inauguration Fashion is synonymous with grandeur and style, where every outfit makes a statement. From Melania Trump’s iconic hat to Usha Vance’s chic overcoat, the day showcased some unforgettable looks.
Melania Trump
Melania Trump began the day with an outfit epitomizing her signature style: tailored cuts, striking heels, and a dramatic hat. Her choice of designer, Adam Lippes, and a matching hat by Eric Javits, marked a departure from her previous preference for European luxury brands.
Lippes revealed the outfit was handcrafted in New York, symbolizing a nod to American craftsmanship.
The ensemble, complemented by a wide-brimmed hat with a contrasting cream ribbon, drew attention upward, exuding sophistication despite its unconventional winter choice. Fashion expert Lauren Rothman remarked, “The summer-style boater hat blended Palm Beach elegance with political gravitas.”
Melania also turned heads at the inaugural ball in a floor-length gown featuring a dramatic black ribbon detail, reminiscent of Donald Trump’s signature on executive orders. Her monochromatic look paired seamlessly with her husband’s classic tuxedo.
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Ivanka Trump
Ivanka Trump mirrored Melania’s elegance with an emerald green skirt suit, accentuated by a matching hat.
The outfit’s hourglass silhouette and asymmetrical design hinted at Christian Dior’s post-war “New Look” while drawing parallels to her previous inauguration outfit by Oscar de la Renta.
Rothman noted the international appeal of Ivanka’s attire, comparing it to Princess Kate’s style. The look projected a regal aura, underscoring the Trumps’ dynastic aspirations. “Her outfit signifies a deep understanding of political aesthetics,” Rothman added.
Jill and Joe Biden
Jill Biden stayed true to her love for symbolic fashion, donning a purplish-blue ensemble that echoed her 2021 inauguration look by Markarian. Known for promoting American designers, she once again chose Ralph Lauren, reinforcing themes of unity and the American dream.
Lauren’s timeless designs have become a staple for both Bidens, with Joe Biden awarding the designer the Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of his contributions.
Joe Biden’s choice of a classic Ralph Lauren suit further emphasized inclusivity and tradition, aligning with his message of unity for all Americans.
Usha Vance
The lawyer and wife of Vice President-elect JD Vance, Usha Vance’s most high profile appearance to date was speaking the 2024 Republican National Convention. For the occasion, the 39-year-old chose a cobalt blue off-the-shoulder Badgley Mischka dress, which retails for $495 (£400). According to a spokesperson speaking to industry website WWD, Vance must have bought the garment herself as the brand wasn’t consulted.
But, there were clear signs of a pivot to more high-fashion choices. She chose an Oscar de la Renta overcoat with a strikingly fashion-forward detail: a scarf intentionally tucked into her waist-height belt. Is it a sign of a more stylised image to come as Vance takes her place as the second lady?
I would absolutely label her as one to watch,” said Lauren Rothman, “because she is the newest member into the spotlight, she is receiving help – and it’s working.” Plus: “her energy indicates a comfort in it. Like, I was ready for this.”
She sees an authenticity too: “It doesn’t look like a costume. It looks like she’s having fun.” She cited an optimism in the choice of pink, where many of the other figures in Trump’s universe went for more sombre colours.
The Tech Executives and Their Partners
Tech moguls and their significant others brought contrasting styles to the event. Priscilla Chan, Mark Zuckerberg’s wife, embraced classic Washington fashion with a short necklace and buttoned-up coat. Meanwhile, Lauren Sanchez, fiancée of Jeff Bezos, opted for a bold white Alexander McQueen suit with padded shoulders and lingerie-inspired details. While polarizing, her outfit highlighted individuality amidst the formal attire.
Hillary Clinton
Hillary Clinton’s fashion evolution was evident in her somber navy ensemble by Stella McCartney, a departure from her usual vibrant palette. Known for sartorial messaging, her choice of a single brooch added understated elegance.
Clinton’s sustainable fashion choice complemented the administration’s climate goals while subtly critiquing Trump’s environmental policies.
Donald Trump
What the incoming president chose to wear was never going to stray too far from his norm of navy suits.
According to Lauren Rothman, “we’re still seeing, you know, a pretty simple suit” but she said the big difference and a “huge signal that is different, is in his tie.”
“It’s really ultimately a mix of red and blue, which creates a purple effect.
“The more muted tie kind of signals in my world, I don’t need to scream. I don’t need to project. I have arrived.”
Another big point of interest, particularly on Inauguration Day, is where the president gets his suits.
It is unclear where the 78-year-old’s suit came from, but as he used his inauguration speech to talk about increasing American industry, it would be fitting from him to wear an American suit, menswear expert Derek Guy pointed out.
“American manufacturing is on the decline, especially in clothing. Some of the factories that made clothes for previous inaugurations have since shuttered. It would be nice to see more support for American manufacturing, even if it’s only symbolic,” he said.
Fashion as a Statement
Inauguration Day 2025 was not just about politics but also a celebration of personal expression and cultural significance through fashion. From Melania’s dramatic flair to Usha Vance’s modern sophistication, each outfit told a story, leaving a lasting impression on this historic day.
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