The first lady wore a strapless white gown with a geometric black trim and a small slit to the inaugural ball on Monday, Jan. 20By Anna Lazarus Caplan is a writer-reporter for PEOPLE. She has been working at PEOPLE since 2022. Her work previously appeared in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, The Dallas Morning News, Eater and other publications.First lady Melania Trump wore a black-and-white gown to celebrate President Donald Trump’s inaugural ball on Monday, Jan. 20.Melania walked out next to the 47th president at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center wearing a strapless white gown with a geometric black trim and a small slit. The look was paired with white heels and a thick, black choker.
According to Invariant Vice President of Brand Strategy & External Affairs Kate Bennett, the dress was designed by Hervé Pierre, Melania’s longtime style advisor. Pierre also made her first inaugural gown.
At the 2017 inaugural ball, which marked the beginning of her husband’s first term, Melania wore an off-the-shoulder vanilla gown with a high slit and red silk belt, created by Pierre.
For Donald’s first inauguration ceremony eight years ago, the former model chose a powder-blue Ralph Lauren cashmere ensemble with matching gloves and heels.
For Donald’s second inauguration, Melania stepped out in a navy coat and skirt from New York designer Adam Lippes. The daytime outfit was accessorized with a wide-brimmed hat that obscured much of her face, marking a departure from first ladies’ typical Inauguration Day attire.For Donald’s second inauguration, Melania stepped out in a navy coat and skirt from New York designer Adam Lippes. The daytime outfit was accessorized with a wide-brimmed hat that obscured much of her face, marking a departure from first ladies’ typical Inauguration Day attire.The last first lady to wear a hat to a presidential inauguration was Hillary Clinton in 1993, who wore a blue velvet bowler that did not conceal her eyes.