Melania Trump’s new official White House portrait sparked widespread discussion online. Released on January 28, 2025, the black-and-white image shows a more commanding presence than her 2017 portrait. She leans forward, hands on a reflective glass table, dressed in a tailored black suit with a white shirt and high-waisted trousers. Behind her, White House windows reveal the Washington Monument, symbolizing her connection to power.
Reactions were mixed. Some praised her intense, serious expression, while others found it severe or stylized. Many noted her resemblance to her husband, President Donald Trump, prompting debate about her assertive stance and the portrait’s tone. Some called it “classy,” while others questioned retouching or overstyling.
Photographed by Régine Mahaux, a Belgian artist who also shot her 2017 portrait, the image reflects Melania’s elegance, authority, and restraint. The stark, intense style contrasts with her softer 2017 image, which featured a glowing background and gentle smile. The new portrait emphasizes strength and deliberate power, anchored by the Washington Monument, signaling a shift to a more assertive public role.
The portrait followed discussions about her inauguration outfit, a dark navy coat with a bold hat, which divided opinions. Designed by milliner Eric Javits, the hat faced a last-minute repair after damage but was crafted to flatter her features. Melania’s poised demeanor, even with playful moments like a light kiss with Donald, highlights her grace under scrutiny. Her evolving style continues to shape her enduring, layered public image.