Inauguration Day is all about style, spectacle, and photos. The clothes, colors, and details take center stage. From Melania Trump‘s striking hat to Usha’s bold overcoat, fashion ruled the spotlight. Here’s a breakdown of the most unforgettable looks.
Melania Trump’s Signature Style
Melania Trump started the day with her signature flair. Her outfit was sharp, paired with spiked heels and a dramatic hat. It blended seriousness with undeniable chic. At 54, the former first lady’s fashion choices continue to fascinate. For this event, she picked New York designer Adam Lippes and a matching hat by Eric Javits. This marked a departure from her previous inauguration’s Ralph Lauren look.
A Shift to American Designers
Typically, Melania opts for European luxury brands. This time, her choice of American designers was a noticeable shift. Unlike Ralph Lauren, Lippes and Javits are less star-studded names. Lippes highlighted that the outfit was hand-stitched in New York by “some of America’s finest craftsmen.” The choice aligns with his newly opened boutique in Palm Beach, near Mar-a-Lago.
Extravagance in Every Detail
Melania’s taste for extravagance shone through. Her outfits, often priced in the thousands, always make a statement. The hat’s wide brim and cream ribbon against the navy base drew all eyes. It was impossible to miss, even if it partly obscured her own eyes.
Fashion Choices That Sparked Debate
The hat’s design sparked conversation. Celebrity stylist Lauren Rothman noted its unusual choice for the chilly Washington weather. “A boater is traditionally a summer hat,” she explained. “It’s more Venice than DC in winter.” Yet, the look cleverly fused Palm Beach vibes with global fashion aesthetics. It balanced tradition, politics, and international appeal.
A Dramatic Inaugural Ball Look
Later, Melania turned heads again at the inaugural ball. She wore a full-length gown with a bold black ribbon design. The thick strip also appeared as a choker-style necklace, tying the ensemble together. From afar, the ribbon’s swirling pattern resembled her husband’s unmistakable signature—a playful nod to his earlier flurry of executive orders.
A Coordinated Look with Donald Trump
Donald Trump matched her monochrome elegance in a classic tuxedo. The coordinated black-and-white theme emphasized their polished image. At 24 years her senior, Trump’s look was simple yet complementary. Together, the couple’s outfits captured the grandeur of the day and ensured their place in the headlines.