Melania Trump’s dramatic black-and-navy ensemble for the 2025 presidential inauguration ceremony sparked widespread ridicule and mockery, with critics comparing her appearance to everything from cartoon villains to pop stars at funerals.
The former First Lady’s choice of a somber, dark navy blue and ivory silk wool ensemble by designer Adam Lippes prompted immediate comparisons to a mobster’s wardrobe rather than traditional inaugural attire. The outfit, featuring a severe double-breasted blazer paired with a matching pencil skirt, was described by Lippes as showcasing “America’s finest craftsmen” – though social media users had far less flattering interpretations.
The ensemble’s dramatic effect was amplified by a wide-brimmed navy blue hat with white ribbon by milliner Eric Javits, which partially obscured Trump’s face in what many viewed as an unnecessarily theatrical touch. The hat’s mysterious styling led some observers to suggest it would fuel existing “fake Melania” conspiracy theories.
One social media critic quipped that she looked like “Michael Jackson at a funeral,” while others compared her to fictional villains and cartoon characters. The outfit’s austere styling prompted comparisons to anime antagonists and even “Darkwing Duck.”
The ceremony, relocated to the U.S. Capitol Rotunda due to Washington D.C.’s cold temperatures, marked Donald Trump’s historic return as the first president since Grover Cleveland to serve non-consecutive terms. While performers Carrie Underwood, Christopher Macchio, and Lee Greenwood provided entertainment, it was the former First Lady’s fashion choice that dominated social media discussion.
The McDonald’s mascot, Hamburglar, became a frequent point of comparison, with one viewer noting, “All Melania needs is a mask, and she would resemble the Hamburgler.” Others suggested her look evoked “Carmen Sandiego,” “Zorro,” and even “the Babadook” from the horror film.
Fashion observers noted the stark contrast between this somber ensemble and her 2017 inauguration attire – a lighter, more traditional light blue cashmere dress and cropped jacket by Ralph Lauren. The 2025 Lippes creation, which the designer intended to convey “timeless sophistication,” left many wondering if she was “in mourning.”
This wasn’t the first time Trump’s fashion choices drew unflattering comparisons with Michael Jackson. Similar observations emerged during her 2018 visit to the Great Sphinx in Giza, where her outfit choices again prompted public derision.
The outfit, described by some as having a “mobster vibe,” represented what many viewed as a questionable departure from conventional inaugural fashion. Despite Lippes’ reputation for sophisticated American sportswear, the ensemble’s dark color palette and severe styling led to widespread mockery rather than the intended air of elegance.
Her recent fashion choices have consistently drawn criticism, including her black and white Valentino dress at Jimmy Carter’s funeral, which critics compared to “nun’s attire.” The inaugural outfit continued this pattern of controversial styling choices that prioritize dramatic effect over traditional diplomatic dress codes.
Adding to the theatrical effect, Trump paired the outfit with matching navy gloves, creating what social media users described as a “full villain ensemble” complete with what one user called “cartoon character energy.”
