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Melania's Gown: More Than Fabric, It's 'Self Expression'
20 Feb
Summary
- Melania Trump's inaugural ball gown is now an exhibit at the Smithsonian.
- She described the dress as a 'courageous act of self expression.'
- The gown features a black Z shape on a white background.
First Lady Melania Trump recently donated her 2025 inaugural ball gown to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. She delivered a five-minute address at the exhibit's installation, characterizing the gown as more than just fashion, but a 'courageous act of self expression' that embodies the 'human condition.' The strapless white dress with a black Z-shaped sash, designed by Hervé Pierre, will now be on display in the First Ladies Gallery.
Trump explained that the gown's design represents decades of her life experiences and influences, and is a realization of over 50 years of education and wisdom. She highlighted it as a symbol of America's originality and creativity in fashion. This donation follows her previous gift of her first inaugural gown to the museum in October 2017, both now housed in the First Ladies Collection, upholding a tradition that began in 1912.
