What did Melania Trump wear for President’s inauguration? Details explored 

First Lady Melania Trump, on January 20, 2025, caused a sensation with her meticulously chosen outfit during the inauguration of President Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States. Custom-made navy silk wool by American designer Adam Lippes was the outfit she chose, which happens to be one of those suitably formal and streamlined designs.

A double-breasted coat was the centerpiece of her outfit, nipped at the waist to highlight her silhouette. The design was significantly influenced by military-inspired aesthetics, adding structure and elegance to her overall appearance. The deep navy hue added to the timeless sophistication of the ensemble.

The whole getup was complete with a boater-style hat that was done by New York-based milliner Eric Javits. Wide-brimmed and flat, the hat would bring some much-needed formality and polish to her face for the coat; she did it absolutely flawlessly well.

---

What designers did Melania Trump choose for the inauguration?

While selecting her inauguration clothes, Melania Trump highlighted American craftsmanship by working with designers Adam Lippes and Eric Javits. Adam Lippes is recognized for his designs as being refined and tailored. In this case, he designed the navy silk wool coat that portrayed the former First Lady's penchant for structured, elegant silhouettes.

Eric Javits, a millinery expert, designed the boater-style hat that became the focal point of her ensemble. This collaboration underscored Melania's inclination towards supporting American designers, a practice she has adhered to in previous public appearances.

For the inauguration of her husband in 2017, Melania chose a powder blue Ralph Lauren ensemble. The style recalled Jacqueline Kennedy's signature look. With the continued use of American designers, Melania reaffirmed the theme of patriotism and encouragement of domestic fashion.

---

What was the significance of Melania Trump's boater-style hat?

The boater-style hat worn by Melania Trump during the inauguration was more than a mere accessory; it carried symbolic weight and influenced public perception.

The hat's wide brim and flat top not only added a regal touch to her outfit but also partially obscured her face, lending an air of mystery and aloofness. This design choice sparked discussions among fashion critics and the public alike.

Some analysts interpreted the hat as evoking a "queenly aura," suggesting a deliberate move to project a sense of authority and formality. Others viewed it as a physical shield, reflecting Melania's desire for privacy amidst the intense scrutiny that accompanies public life.

This is consistent with her previous fashion choices, which often featured structured and protective elements, symbolizing a blend of elegance and personal boundaries.

---

How did Melania Trump's inauguration outfit compare to previous first ladies?

For Melania Trump, for instance, some of the biggest contrasts and draws to previous choices by First Ladies over fashion were seen through her inauguration apparel.

According to an email sent to CNN by Nichola Gutgold, author of Electing Madam Vice President: When Women Run, Women Win,

"With her face half hidden by her hat, Melania remains aloof."

Kate Bennett, former CNN White House correspondent, ahead of the inauguration, stated,

"Her clothes, in my opinion, really reflected that. … Her silhouettes became long-sleeved, cinched waists, hard shoulders, longer hemline, like almost a military-esque vibe."

"I think that’s because it felt like armor … Because she underwent four years of really intense scrutiny," added Bennett, discussing the symbolic undertones of Melania's structured and military-inspired style.

In 2017, powder blue Ralph Lauren was reminiscent of Jacqueline Kennedy while drawing together classic American glamour. In 2025, Melania Trump chose navy military-inspired outerwear and even adorned a boater hat, stepping into a look that was defined by structure and authority.

---

Melania Trump's outfit for the 2025 inauguration was a very deliberate construction that combined American construction with elements of symbolism. Her work with designers Adam Lippes and Eric Javits underscored her desire to recognize and boost talent within the United States.

The boater hat added a dash of mystery and sophistication to it, and as such, became part of the ongoing discussion about her fashion choices. Drawing from historical references and personal taste, Melania Trump once again deployed fashion as a medium to say nuanced things in a moment of great national significance.