The internet was buzzing once again as Melania Trump’s newly released official White House portrait took center stage, sparking intense reactions. Unveiled on January 28, 2025, this striking image marks a bold departure from her 2017 portrait, showcasing a more refined yet powerful presence that has both captivated and divided viewers.
The black-and-white portrait exudes an air of authority and elegance. Melania is seen leaning forward, hands resting confidently on a sleek glass table. Dressed in a tailored black suit, paired with a sharp white shirt and high-waisted trousers, she radiates both strength and sophistication. Her flowing waves of hair frame her face, while subtle makeup accentuates her piercing, commanding gaze. Behind her, the grand windows of the White House provide a view of the Washington Monument, subtly underscoring her connection to the nation’s historical and political core.
The public’s reaction was immediate and mixed. Many were drawn to the intensity of her expression, with some praising the depth reflected in her eyes, while others felt her look was more severe. One observer described her gaze as “serious,” while another quipped, “That look on her face… if looks could kill.” The striking resemblance to her husband, former President Donald Trump, did not escape notice, with numerous comments pointing out their similar expressions. “She looks like a female version of her husband,” one user remarked, fueling even more debate.
While many hailed the portrait as “classy” and “beautiful,” others were quick to criticize, speculating about retouching and deeming it overly stylized. Regardless of the differing opinions, the image quickly became a defining moment, solidifying Melania Trump’s already enigmatic public persona.
The portrait was captured by Régine Mahaux, a renowned Belgian photographer who has worked with the Trump family for over 20 years. Having also photographed Melania’s 2017 portrait, Mahaux spoke highly of the First Lady’s perfectionism and active role in the creative process. The meticulously crafted image not only showcased Melania’s elegance but also conveyed a sense of authority and restraint. Experts highlighted how her assertive posture exuded strength, while the reflective glass table subtly introduced a boundary, preserving an air of mystery.
When compared to her 2017 portrait, the differences were unmistakable. The earlier image depicted a softer, more approachable Melania, bathed in a warm, glowing background and offering a gentle smile. In stark contrast, the 2025 portrait was bold and intense, marking a clear shift in tone as Melania embraced a more deliberate and commanding public persona. The addition of the Washington Monument in the background further anchored her image within the heart of political power, signaling a more intentional and prominent role as First Lady.
The release of the portrait came on the heels of heated discussions about Melania’s inauguration outfit, which similarly sparked divided opinions. At President Donald Trump’s second inauguration on January 20, 2025, Melania wore a dark navy double-breasted coat with sharp lapels, paired with black gloves and a wide-brimmed boater hat. While many praised the ensemble for its elegance and sophistication, others found it too austere, even likening it to funeral attire. The dramatic hat, in particular, became a focal point, with some questioning its size and purpose, while others admired its bold, striking presence.
Despite the mixed reactions, the story behind Melania Trump’s inaugural hat added a layer of intrigue to the ensemble. Designed by renowned milliner Eric Javits, the wide-brimmed piece nearly didn’t make it to the event after the original arrived damaged. In a race against time, Javits crafted a replacement in under four days and had it delivered to Melania at Mar-a-Lago. He later described the commission as one of his greatest honors, noting that the hat was meticulously hand-sewn to complement her signature features.
Inauguration day also brought a few lighthearted moments, including a playful air kiss between Melania and Donald Trump—an amusing necessity due to the hat’s dramatic brim. These candid flashes of warmth offered a human contrast to Melania’s typically poised and composed public image, revealing the complexity with which she navigates life under the spotlight.
Throughout her time as First Lady, Melania’s fashion choices have served as both statement and shield. As former White House correspondent Kate Bennett observed, her style evolved into a form of protective armor—a subtle assertion of control and a signal of her desire for privacy amid relentless public scrutiny. With her latest official portrait, Melania continues to command attention, leaving behind a legacy defined by elegance, enigma, and an enduring ability to spark conversation.
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