By Joke Kujenya
AN UNDERSTATED navy ensemble turned into a symbol of power and poise during Melania Trump’s appearance at the US Capitol for her husband, President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th President of the United States.
With her face partially hidden beneath the brim of an Eric Javits-designed wool boater-style hat, the former first lady captivated global attention once more, not for her words but for her commanding sartorial choices.
Her outfit—a military-style, double-breasted navy coat tailored to perfection and complemented by a pencil skirt and ivory silk crepe blouse—was the work of Adam Lippes, a renowned New York designer.
Lippes, who has dressed public figures such as Michelle Obama, took pride in showcasing American craftsmanship.
“The tradition of the presidential inauguration embodies the beauty of American democracy,” Lippes noted, “and it was an honour to dress Mrs. Trump.”
Lippes’ design choices reflected a deliberate mix of modern elegance and tradition, with hand-sewn details created by his team in New York.
Accessories, including black leather gloves, hinted at the freezing temperatures marking the coldest inauguration ceremony in 40 years.
Yet, it was Javits’ hat that turned heads and set social media abuzz.
Commenting on the accessory, Javits expressed admiration for Melania’s ability to elevate its simplicity. “It wasn’t a ‘wow’ hat, but her grace brought it alive,” he said.
He also revealed that a snowstorm forced him to recreate the design after the original box was crushed during shipping.
Melania’s choice of attire stood in stark contrast to incoming first lady Jill Biden, whose purple Ralph Lauren ensemble projected warmth and bipartisanship.
As comparisons were drawn, Melania’s structured, military-inspired look was seen as a form of “armour” against public scrutiny—a consistent theme during her time as first lady.
Observers interpreted her fashion as intentionally distant, highlighting a shift from her earlier 2017 powder blue inaugural outfit, which had evoked Jackie Kennedy’s accessible elegance.
Fashion critic Vanessa Friedman remarked, “Now, her look creates a physical shield to the outside world.”
While Melania embraced American designers, other high-profile attendees opted for varied styles. Lauren Sánchez, partner of Jeff Bezos, took a daring approach with a white suit worn without a shirt, while Ivanka Trump incorporated European influences with a Christian Dior bag and beret.
In menswear, President Trump stayed true to his signature broad-shouldered suit and red tie, while former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton chose ties in varying shades of blue.
Later in the evening, Melania dazzled in a strapless white silk gown with dramatic black accents designed by Hervé Pierre. Known for crafting her 2017 inaugural ball outfit, Pierre described the look as a balance of “style and vision,” further cementing Melania’s position as a fashion icon.
