In a departure from modern White House protocol, a ceremonial exchange of gifts between the incoming and outgoing first ladies did not take place during the 2025 presidential transition. Melania Trump arrived without a gift to welcome Jill Biden on January 20, 2025. This marked a significant break from tradition.
As the Trumps reached the White House for the conventional pre-inauguration meeting, President Joe Biden greeted them with “Welcome home.” This was starkly different from 2021 when the Trumps chose not to partake in the inaugural activities.
The absence of a gift was a contrast to Mrs. Trump’s arrival at the White House in 2017 when she handed over a blue Tiffany & Co. box to then-First Lady Michelle Obama. This moment gained prominence when Mrs. Obama seemed momentarily taken aback by the surprise gift, and then-President Barack Obama intervened to receive the package. “It was a lovely frame,” Mrs. Obama shared in a 2018 interview, shedding light on the much-debated presidential transition incident.
The gift exchange has been a part of several customs marking presidential transitions since the mid-20th century. In line with this tradition, in December 2024, Dr. Biden invited Mrs. Trump for tea at the White House. However, when Mrs. Trump declined the invitation, Dr. Biden sent her a private note offering help with the transition process. This note was delivered through Donald Trump during their meeting at the Notre Dame reopening ceremony. The only interaction between the two women before the inauguration was a brief encounter at former President Carter’s state funeral.
Mrs. Trump compared her transition experience in 2017 with the one in 2025. She suggested that the Obama administration had not provided necessary information during her transition, leading to difficulties. However, she acknowledged that she had all the required information for the 2025 transition, marking a distinct shift. Mrs. Trump also indicated that she had finished packing and choosing furniture, signifying her preparedness for the transition.
Even though there was no gift exchange, both first ladies adhered to the custom of paying meticulous attention to inaugural fashion. Mrs. Trump opted for a navy blue coat designed by American designer Adam Lippes, complemented by a wide-brimmed hat featuring white trimming by American brand Eric Javits. Dr. Biden selected a dignified purple tie-waist coat. The fashion choices of both women, particularly their preference for American designers, caught the attention of observers.
Following the established protocol, both couples enjoyed coffee and tea in the White House residence before leaving for the Capitol ceremony. “My message today is joy,” President Biden proclaimed, adding “hope” to his inaugural themes. The joint departure of the couples for the Capitol adhered to the longstanding tradition of peaceful transition, even though some customs were altered.
Looking ahead, Mrs. Trump’s office has shared plans for a modified approach to the role of the first lady during her husband’s potential second term. Her schedule might be split between official responsibilities in Washington, D.C., and spending time at residences in Florida and New York, marking a departure from the traditional first lady protocols.
