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Melania Trump embraced the leather look as she marked a significant occasion at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History on Friday. The first lady was present to celebrate the donation of her second inaugural gown to the museum’s esteemed collection.
In a nod to her historic dress, Melania opted for an all-black ensemble. She donned a sleek, double-breasted Bottega Veneta coat, which retails for $4,300, paired with a knit turtleneck. Her outfit was completed with leather leggings and striking knee-high, snakeskin-embossed boots by Christian Louboutin. This chic attire was chosen for the special event where she spoke about the gown’s significance.
Reflecting on the Hervé Pierre creation, Melania addressed the audience, saying, “This is not just a dress. It embodies more than 50 years of education, experience, and wisdom, all woven together with each thread, each stitch, and each sharp edge.” The gown, a strapless off-white silk crepe column, is accented with two bands of black silk gazar, making a bold statement in both style and symbolism.
She continued, “This dress speaks with a distinct point of view, offering a modern silhouette. It is bold, dignified, and ruthlessly chic.” Her words captured the essence of the gown, highlighting its unique design and the skill behind its creation.
“This dress speaks with a distinct point of view, a modern silhouette. Bold and dignified and ruthlessly chic.”
Thanking the pattern makers, seamstresses and artisans involved in bringing the “technical marvel” to life, the first lady added, “This black and white masterpiece showcases America’s pure spirit of originality, superior engineering and boundless creativity. It’s a statement as to why America’s fashion industry can lead the rest of the world.”
In addition to the gown, a replica of the 1955 Harry Winston brooch Trump styled as a choker at the inaugural ball will be displayed at the Smithsonian.
“The minimal black neckpiece framed the radiant floral diamond cluster, creating harmony with my overall look,” she said during her remarks.
Trump previously donated her dress from 2017’s inaugural ball — a vanilla silk crepe off-the-shoulder style with a slit skirt, ruffled trim and a red ribbon at the waist, also designed by Pierre — to the Smithsonian as well.