During the first months of Donald Trump’s second term, Melania Trump kept a low profile, but recently she has been appearing more often in public. At the 2025 Congressional Picnic on June 12, she unexpectedly became the center of attention, overshadowing her husband. The former model’s rare appearance on the South Lawn was met with praise, especially from President Trump, who thanked her for organizing the event.
Melania wore a bright white blouse paired with floral cotton jacquard pants by Dolce & Gabbana and pink suede Manolo Blahnik pumps, an elegant summer look that quickly caught eyes. She engaged warmly with guests, and photos of her at the picnic went viral, sparking lively discussions on social media. Many praised her sophisticated and understated style, calling it one of her best looks. However, not all reactions were flattering. Some social media users compared her appearance to Caitlyn Jenner, formerly Bruce Jenner, noting similarities in facial features and demeanor. This comparison had appeared in media before, dividing opinion sharply. While some agreed with the resemblance, others strongly disagreed and dismissed the claims.
Throughout the event, President Trump continued to praise Melania, not only for her appearance but also for her involvement in legislative efforts like the Take It Down Act, aimed at removing nonconsensual explicit content from the internet. He even joked that she might take over his job, highlighting her growing public role. Melania’s wardrobe choices have long been scrutinized, with her style evolving from flashy runway looks to more conservative and polished outfits after becoming First Lady. Brands like Burberry, Valentino, and Dior have been staples in her wardrobe, but opinions on her fashion remain divided.
At the 2025 inauguration, Melania surprised many by wearing a sleek black dress and wide-brimmed hat, a stark contrast to the softer, pastel looks she favored earlier. Art historian Gwendolyn DuBois Shaw noted Melania’s reserved presence, maintaining distance from the audience, which some interpreted as a lack of warmth or softness.
