As the United States welcomed its 47th president, Donald Trump, back into office on January 20, 2025, attention quickly turned to the inaugural celebrations—and especially to First Lady Melania Trump, whose striking fashion choices once again stole the spotlight. At the Liberty Inaugural Ball, following the swearing-in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol, the former model turned First Lady graced the dance floor with a blend of timeless elegance and modern sophistication. Her gown, designed by French-American couturier Hervé Pierre, was a visual representation of her distinctive style—graceful yet bold, classic with a touch of the unexpected.

Standing beside her husband, who was dressed in a traditional black tuxedo, Melania dazzled in a custom black-and-white evening gown. The strapless dress featured a unique asymmetrical design, with a single off-shoulder strap and an intricate zigzag motif that gave the illusion of a black ribbon cascading around a white satin base. The design drew praise for its architectural beauty and movement, especially as the skirt’s high slit revealed Melania’s sleek white heels with every step of their ceremonial first dance.

But what truly elevated the ensemble was the dramatic accessory that complemented the gown: a black ribbon choker, adorned with a dazzling diamond flower brooch set with a delicate pink pearl. The choker added an edge to the otherwise soft, flowing gown and served as a focal point of her look. It was a bold fashion choice that highlighted Melania’s flair for mixing elegance with a touch of avant-garde style. The accessory wasn’t just jewelry—it was a statement.

Designer Hervé Pierre, who has long worked with Melania Trump and famously created her 2017 inaugural gown, expressed his gratitude and pride in collaborating once again with the First Lady. He shared his excitement on Instagram, posting a sketch of the gown with the caption, “It was such an honor to create the dress for First Lady Melania Trump tonight. I can’t thank her enough… it was a wonderful project, a great collaboration… as always !!!!” The social media post quickly garnered attention, further cementing Pierre’s status as a go-to designer for high-profile political events.

Pierre’s previous work for Melania during Trump’s first inauguration was also memorable. In 2017, she wore an off-the-shoulder white gown, featuring a thigh-high slit and accented with a thin red silk belt—another look that seamlessly blended classic femininity with sharp tailoring and contemporary touches. Monday night’s ensemble echoed the spirit of that moment, yet pushed the boundaries with more intricate detailing and a more commanding presence on the stage.

Earlier in the day, Melania showcased yet another thoughtful fashion choice at the swearing-in ceremony itself. Opting to highlight American fashion talent, she wore a navy wool coat and matching pencil skirt by New York designer Adam Lippes. Underneath, she paired the tailored pieces with an ivory silk crepe blouse that added softness and contrast to the structured silhouette. Completing the sophisticated look was a flat-brimmed hat by Eric Javitz, another New York-based designer. The coordinated ensemble struck a perfect balance between formality and refinement, showcasing her deep understanding of style diplomacy and sartorial symbolism.

Melania Trump has long been known for her impeccable taste and keen eye for fashion. Throughout both of her husband’s presidential tenures, she has leaned on a select group of designers to craft looks that are both high fashion and politically resonant. Her wardrobe often pays tribute to both American and international designers, choosing pieces that reflect the occasion and align with her quiet yet assertive persona as First Lady.

With her appearance at the 2025 Liberty Inaugural Ball, Melania once again confirmed her status as a modern style icon. Her gown and accessories told a story—one of power, elegance, and a calculated defiance of convention. In a political landscape often dominated by rhetoric and policy, Melania’s fashion choices offer a silent, yet unmistakably powerful, form of expression. And once again, all eyes were on her, not just as the wife of the president, but as a First Lady whose wardrobe speaks volumes.