As President Donald Trump was sworn into office, an unexpected accessory stole the spotlight: First Lady Melania Trump’s striking navy hat. The wide-brimmed boater-style hat, accented with white trim, became the centerpiece of social media discussions, sparking both admiration and curiosity.
Melania’s choice of attire, which included a double-breasted navy coat by designer Adam Lippes, was described by some as “sophisticated” and “stunning.” Others, however, noted the hat’s resemblance to the signature look of fictional character Carmen Sandiego. Questions arose about whether the hat symbolized a deliberate attempt to maintain distance from her husband, given its prominent design and her decision to keep it on throughout the day.
The American designer of the hat, Eric Javits, explained that wearing a hat all day aligns with traditional etiquette. “You don’t take it off until you’re changing for another occasion,” Javits shared, defending the First Lady’s adherence to classic fashion norms. Despite its understated origins, the hat’s pairing with Melania’s ensemble transformed it into a powerful fashion statement.
The accessory accompanied Melania through a morning church service, the swearing-in ceremony, a luncheon with key political and industry figures, and a celebratory parade. Its positioning often shaded her eyes, adding an air of mystery to her appearance.
Donald Trump himself made light of the accessory during a speech, quipping about Melania’s struggle to keep the hat on during gusty moments, particularly as they bid farewell to former President Joe Biden and former First Lady Jill Biden. “With the hat she’s wearing, she almost blew away,” he joked, adding levity to the day’s formal proceedings.
This isn’t the first time Melania Trump has made headlines with her wardrobe choices. Her previous tenure as First Lady saw notable moments, including the 2018 controversy surrounding a jacket with the phrase, “I really don’t care, do u?” scrawled on the back during a visit to a migrant shelter in Texas.
On Inauguration Day, however, Melania’s choice of hat sparked broader interpretations, with many viewing it as a bold and deliberate assertion of her unique style, leaving both critics and fans captivated.
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