On Friday, February 20, 2026, Melania Trump donated her 2025 inaugural gown to the Smithsonian. For the occasion, she looked polished in a Bottega Veneta peacoat featuring double buttons, layered over a black turtleneck, skintight leather leggings, and Christian Louboutin snakeskin knee-high heeled boots.
The mother of one wore her hair down in soft waves and opted for her signature glam makeup look.
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Melania Trump's 2025 Inaugural Ball Gown Donated To The Smithsonian
The First Lady stood before reporters and colleagues at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History beside the iconic black-and-white ballgown she wore to Donald Trump’s second inauguration ball in January 2025. The custom, strapless off-white silk crepe gown was designed by Hervé Pierre and featured striking black silk bands forming a geometric, Z-shaped pattern across the bodice, along with a subtle slit. She accessorized with a black ribbon choker adorned with a reproduced 1955 Harry Winston diamond brooch.
With the donation, she becomes the first non-consecutive first lady to have two inaugural gowns displayed at the Smithsonian.
Melania posed beside the gown, which was displayed inside a tall, clear case, and reflected on the moment.
“It’s incredible. It’s a historic moment,” she said. “This is not a dress,” she continued. “This is more than 50 years of education, experience, and wisdom realized with each thread, each stitch, each sharp edge.”
“It takes time; it’s slow, but the end result is always magical. If you had a chance to see my new film, MELANIA, you are well aware of what it took to bring this technical marvel to life."
"We must take pride, not only in the small rituals of self-care, but in the courageous act of self-expression. Our outward appearance to the world, the art of presenting oneself, can be cultivated over a lifetime," she added.
Melania Trump's Stylist Slams Designers Who Refuse To Dress Her
Her stylist has been vocal about American designers often refusing to dress the former model. While she once graced the cover of Vogue in February 2005, her time as First Lady saw her largely overlooked by the fashion industry.
As a result, she has favored European designers like Dior and Dolce & Gabbana while frequently collaborating with Herve Pierre.
Pierre responded to this in a chat with Women's Wear Daily (WWD), saying, “I understand that you can criticize Mrs. Trump, but to say to someone who is coming to shop full-price—'you are not welcome here'—that is something that I would have never expected.”
Pierre added, "I don't really do that, but for the good reason that the fashion industry is not very welcoming. That's no secret. Some are very open-minded and would be able to do something special, but a lot of people are not."
