The portrait was a black-and-white composition exuding authority and poise. Melania leaned forward, her hands placed firmly on a reflective glass table, wearing a tailored black suit paired with a crisp white shirt and high-waisted trousers. Her cascading waves of hair framed her features, while understated makeup highlighted her piercing gaze. Behind her, the grand windows of the White House revealed the Washington Monument, subtly emphasizing her connection to the nation’s historical and political heart.
The public reaction was swift and varied. Many commented on her intense expression, with some admiring the depth conveyed by her eyes and others interpreting her look as severe. One observer described her eyes as “serious,” while another remarked, “That look on her face… if looks could kill.” The resemblance to her husband, President Donald Trump, did not go unnoticed, with multiple comments drawing parallels between their expressions. “She looks like a female version of her husband,” one user noted, sparking further debate.
While some praised the portrait as “classy” and “beautiful,” others criticized it, speculating about retouching and describing it as overly stylized. Despite the polarized opinions, the image became a defining moment, further cementing Melania’s enigmatic public image.
The portrait was taken by Régine Mahaux, a Belgian photographer who has worked with the Trump family for over two decades. Mahaux, who also photographed Melania’s 2017 portrait, spoke about her admiration for the First Lady’s perfectionism and involvement in the creative process. The carefully curated image reflected not just Melania’s elegance but also a sense of authority and restraint. Experts noted how her assertive stance projected strength while the reflective table introduced a subtle boundary, maintaining an air of mystery.
When compared to her 2017 portrait, the differences were striking. The earlier image portrayed a softer, more approachable Melania, with a glowing background and a gentle smile. In contrast, the 2025 portrait was stark and intense, symbolizing a shift in tone as Melania embraced a more deliberate and powerful public persona. The inclusion of the Washington Monument further anchored her image in the seat of power, signaling a more intentional role as First Lady.
The release of the portrait followed discussions about Melania’s inauguration outfit, which had similarly divided public opinion. At President Donald Trump’s second inauguration on January 20, 2025, Melania wore a dark navy double-breasted coat with sharp lapels, paired with black gloves and a wide-brimmed boater hat. While some lauded the ensemble as elegant and polished, others criticized it as austere, comparing it to funeral attire. The dramatic hat became a focal point, with some questioning its size and purpose while others admired its boldness.
Despite the mixed reviews, the hat’s journey added intrigue. Crafted by milliner Eric Javits, the piece faced near disaster when the original arrived damaged. Javits rushed to create a replacement in under four days, which was then delivered to Melania at Mar-a-Lago. The hat, described by Javits as one of his greatest honors to design, was painstakingly hand-sewn and intended to flatter Melania’s well-known features.
The inauguration day brought lighthearted moments, including a playful air kiss between Donald and Melania, as the wide-brimmed hat made a traditional kiss impractical. These glimpses of humanity juxtaposed with Melania’s composed exterior highlighted her ability to navigate the scrutiny of public life with grace.
Throughout her tenure, Melania’s fashion choices have consistently reflected her layered relationship with the public. Former White House correspondent Kate Bennett observed that her style evolved into a protective armor, symbolizing her desire for privacy amid constant scrutiny. As Melania’s public image continues to spark debate, her latest portrait serves as a testament to her enduring presence and her ability to leave a lasting impression, whether praised or critiqued.
