Fashion has always played a pivotal role in shaping the image of public figures, and the inauguration events marking a new presidential term are no exception. As the Trump administration ushered in its new era, the fashion choices of Ivanka Trump, Melania Trump, and Usha Vance quickly became a talking point. While the political landscape has evolved, so too has the relationship between the fashion industry and the Trump family. This time around, American designers, notably Oscar de la Renta and Sergio Hudson, embraced the women of the Trump orbit with custom creations, signaling a shift from previous years.
Ivanka Trump’s Show-Stopping Gown
Ivanka Trump’s fashion choices during the inauguration were nothing short of stunning. For the Inaugural Candlelight Dinner on the eve of the inauguration, Ivanka wore a breathtaking off-the-shoulder gown, meticulously embroidered with crystals and pearls. Designed by the renowned New York-based label Oscar de la Renta, the gown epitomized elegance and sophistication. Behind-the-scenes glimpses shared by the label on social media showcased the intricate process of crafting Ivanka’s bespoke dress. The gown’s delicate detailing and regal presence were the perfect complement to the glamour of the evening.
— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) January 21, 2025
On the day of the inauguration, Ivanka switched up her look while still maintaining her impeccable sense of style. She wore a camel-colored coat adorned with floral appliques, also by Oscar de la Renta, to the Arlington Cemetery ceremony. The subtle yet impactful floral touches brought a sense of warmth and vitality to the proceedings, in contrast to the colder, more reserved tones of some of the other attendees.
Usha Vance: A Fresh Fashion Presence
Usha Vance, the incoming Second Lady, made a notable fashion statement during the inauguration events as well. On the night of the Vice President’s Dinner at the National Gallery of Art, Vance wowed the crowd in a custom strapless velvet gown, also designed by Oscar de la Renta. The luxurious fabric and structured silhouette highlighted her grace and poise, making her one of the standout attendees of the evening.
For the inauguration itself, Vance turned to Oscar de la Renta once again. She wore a custom peony cashmere coat with a scarf wrap, paired with a complementary tea-length dress. The ensemble’s soft, pastel hues and the tucked-in scarf provided a fresh, lighthearted contrast to Melania Trump’s more somber navy attire. Vance’s look was a refreshing, sunny interpretation of inauguration fashion, capturing the optimism that often accompanies the dawn of a new administration.
The Return of Oscar de la Renta to Politics
Oscar de la Renta’s collaboration with the Trump family is noteworthy, especially considering the tension between fashion designers and the family in previous years. In 2017, many American designers shied away from dressing the Trumps, with some even refusing to acknowledge their connections with the family. However, over the years, this dynamic has evolved. Oscar de la Renta, a label with a long history of dressing First Ladies from both sides of the political spectrum, has continued to support Ivanka and Usha Vance. The brand’s decision to dress the women during such high-profile moments speaks volumes about the shifting tides in political fashion.
Interestingly, the label’s current designers, Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, also created a striking political fashion moment in 2020 when they designed Michelle Obama’s deconstructed sleeveless jacket for the Democratic National Convention. Their willingness to dress figures from across the political spectrum highlights the inclusive nature of the fashion industry, which continues to use clothing as a way to express individual identity, regardless of political affiliation.
Melania Trump: A Different Approach
While Ivanka Trump embraced Oscar de la Renta’s designs during key moments of the inauguration festivities, Melania Trump, the former First Lady, had a different fashion journey. Throughout her husband’s presidency, Melania often chose to wear foreign designers, favoring high-end European labels for significant events. This marked a departure from Ivanka’s style choices, which were more closely aligned with American designers.
At the inauguration, Melania wore a severe navy coat paired with a kiss-deflecting hat, embodying a more restrained and reserved aesthetic. While her fashion choices often sparked debate during her time in the White House, there was no denying her ability to make a lasting impression with her curated wardrobe selections.
The Rise of Sergio Hudson
Another American designer label gaining attention is Sergio Hudson, whose work has been embraced by political figures like Vice President Kamala Harris. Usha Vance’s choice to wear one of Hudson’s coats at the Arlington Cemetery ceremony showcased the designer’s growing influence within political circles. Hudson’s elegant, modern designs have become a favorite among the current administration’s women, with many praising his ability to blend sophistication with contemporary flair.
Although Vance’s coat was not publicly featured on Hudson’s social media, a source close to the brand revealed that she purchased the piece off the rack. Regardless, Hudson’s designs continue to be a go-to for those in the political spotlight, further cementing his place in the world of high-profile fashion.
Fashion and Politics in the Spotlight
The inauguration marked a new chapter in the relationship between American fashion and politics, with Ivanka Trump, Melania Trump, and Usha Vance donning standout looks by designers like Oscar de la Renta and Sergio Hudson. The embrace of these high-profile figures by top designers signifies a shift in how fashion interacts with the political sphere. While past administrations saw divisions between fashion and politics, the current wave of political fashion has proven that clothing is no longer just a personal statement but a powerful tool in shaping public perception.
As the new administration takes shape, it’s clear that fashion will continue to play an integral role in the stories of its leading figures. From Ivanka’s elegant gowns to Usha Vance’s chic coats, each look tells a unique story of style, strength, and the ever-evolving intersection of fashion and politics.