Melania Trump’s fashion choices have always garnered attention, and her outfit during Donald Trump’s 2017 inauguration was no exception. While her powder blue Ralph Lauren ensemble turned heads for its elegance, many couldn’t help but feel a sense of déjà vu. The look sparked a wave of comparisons to another iconic First Lady: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.
The outfit’s structure, featuring a cropped jacket paired with a matching high-waisted skirt, resembled Jackie Kennedy’s timeless fashion. Even the gloves and shoes added to the resemblance, making it seem like a modern-day nod to the beloved 1960s-style icon. This subtle tribute didn’t go unnoticed, as social media buzzed with side-by-side comparisons of the two women.
While some praised Melania for her sophisticated and nostalgic choice, others saw it as a deliberate strategy to align herself with the elegance and poise associated with Jackie O. By evoking such imagery, Melania may have sought to present herself as a dignified and stylish First Lady from the outset of her husband’s presidency.
Both Melania and Jackie share a background of international sophistication—Melania as a Slovenian model and Jackie with her Parisian education. The parallels in their global appeal and sense of style made the comparisons even more striking.
Fashion has always played a significant role in shaping public perception, and Melania’s inauguration outfit proved how clothing can bridge eras. By echoing Jackie Kennedy’s iconic look, she solidified her position as a First Lady with an eye for symbolism and a penchant for making headlines.
Whether intentional or not, Melania Trump’s inauguration outfit left an indelible mark. It served as a reminder of how history often repeats itself, even in fashion. The tribute to Jackie Kennedy wasn’t just about style—it was a powerful statement that fashion remains a silent yet influential language in the political sphere.
