Style Returns to Washington: The Inauguration That Changed Everything
By Isabelle Redfield
January 20, 2025, wasn’t just a date — it was a reckoning. For Americans, it symbolized the return of strength: a fortified military, secure borders, and the firm affirmation of two genders. The nation collectively exhaled, reassured by promises kept, as the day unfolded. What began as a gathering of hundreds of thousands in the heart of our nation’s capital soon transformed into a television marathon, where Americans, particularly women, eagerly tuned in from their living rooms. Amid the political pomp and patriotic pageantry, one question remained: What would our First Family wear?
A week prior, in an interview with The Washington Post, we predicted that Melania would define the delicate balance between diplomacy and fashion in her husband’s second term. On the world stage, this was America’s ultimate fashion moment. After all, for many of our readers, the Inauguration isn’t just about politics — it’s the Super Bowl, the Met Gala, and New York Fashion Week all rolled into one. The anticipation was palpable, the stakes higher than ever. Which designers would rise to the occasion? Would there be reinvention, surprise, or nostalgia stitched into their ensembles? And, above all, how would this sartorial moment set the tone for the next four years?
Well, the wait is over, and we’re here to deliver the verdict: it just keeps getting better. The Trump-Vance family stepped onto history’s stage with unparalleled style, blowing expectations out of the water. Alongside familiar faces like Melania and Ivanka Trump, two new fashion-forward figures emerged — Kai Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance — proving that this class of conservative women is one to watch.
With history book moments aplenty, let’s dive in.
America Has Missed Ivanka Trump
America is thrilled to have its First Daughter and fashion icon, Ivanka Trump, back in the spotlight. Over the years, we’ve missed her impeccable style and grace, and she certainly delivered in every way for this historic occasion. From day to night, Ivanka showcased her signature elegance with looks that were nothing short of breathtaking.
For Inauguration Day, Ivanka wore a chic forest green skirt suit by Christian Dior, perfectly tailored with an asymmetrical belted jacket and matching pencil skirt. Paired with a coordinating hat, black leather gloves, and the iconic Lady Dior handbag, the ensemble exuded timeless sophistication.
Later that evening, she stepped out for the Inaugural Balls in a show-stopping recreation of Hubert de Givenchy’s iconic black-and-white gown, famously worn by Audrey Hepburn in the 1954 film Sabrina. The gown featured a structured bustier with an elegant overskirt crafted from off-white silk taffeta, layered with tone-on-tone organdy, and accented by a black satin organza ruffle. Hand-painted and embroidered floral motifs added a touch of intricate craftsmanship, tying together her love of timeless style with exquisite detail.
In both her day and evening looks, Ivanka incorporated floral accents, symbolizing spring and the “new beginnings” of this Trump era. Her custom Oscar de la Renta day dress featured embroidered crystals and cabochon pearls forming delicate floral designs — so stunning it was gasp-worthy. Her coat, in a shade reminiscent of Pantone’s Mocha Mouse, was adorned with matching felt-like floral appliqué. Each look was a testament to Ivanka’s ability to seamlessly merge symbolism, elegance, and fashion, marking her return with style and grace that left America in awe. P.S. check out her rare podcast interview with the Him & Her Show. No notes!
First Impressions On The Second Lady
Second Lady Usha Vance absolutely nailed her first impression. She and her team understood the assignment and didn’t miss a single beat. SLOTUS captivated all weekend with her timeless embrace of classic feminine style, showcasing graceful silhouettes and sophisticated color palettes. She turned heads Monday morning in a pastel pink Oscar de la Renta coat, effortlessly paired with pink Manolo Blahnik boots for a look that was both polished and approachable.
In another show-stopping moment at the Vice President’s dinner, she dazzled in a custom Oscar de la Renta gown that beautifully accentuated her delicate frame, exuding an air of understated elegance.
Finally, for the evening circuit, she chose a breathtaking blue gown by Lebanese designer Reem Acra. The floor-length masterpiece featured a sheer mesh neckline that created the illusion of a strapless silhouette, adorned with shimmering sequins that sparkled with every step.
It’s no small feat to step into such a well-established, fashion-forward family, especially with the press ready to compare at every turn, but Usha Vance gave them no material for negativity. She once again proved that a genuine smile is the ultimate accessory. What a whirlwind week for the Second Lady, standing by her husband — a man who defied every obstacle, embodying the very essence of the American Dream. The best part? They’re just getting started.
Melania: On Her Own Terms
The First Lady, long celebrated for her penchant for European designers, made a bold, refreshing statement at the 2025 inauguration by choosing to champion an American designer, Adam Lippes, for her ceremony ensemble. Draped in a tailored navy overcoat by Lippes, she layered it effortlessly over a crisp white shirt, pairing the look with sleek black leather gloves.
But it was the pièce de résistance that truly stole the show: a striking, wide-brimmed navy hat by Eric Javits, trimmed in bold white. Perched atop her perfectly slicked-back hair, the hat was not just a fashion choice — it was a quiet declaration of strength and grace. Shielding her eyes with regal poise, it subtly drew focus away from her own gaze and toward the president, making his presence all the more commanding. This understated yet powerful look encapsulated the quiet resilience of a woman who had weathered a decade of public scrutiny and relentless attacks, standing steadfast beside her husband with a quiet elegance that spoke volumes.
In the evening, the talented and trusted Hervé Pierre, who also designed her iconic 2017 inaugural gown, once again had the honor of creating the First Lady’s ballgown. The dress was a masterpiece, featuring a strapless off-white silk crepe silhouette adorned with two striking bands of black silk gazar. To complete the look, the First Lady wore a vintage diamond brooch by Harry Winston, originally crafted in 1955 and repurposed as a choker. The brooch, with its elegant ribbon encircling a bouquet of flowers, echoed the vision Pierre had for the gown, which was reflected in his original sketch, adding an extra layer of refinement and meaning to the ensemble.
Elegance Abounds for Tiffany
Who knew six months pregnant could look this stunning? Tiffany stole the show, stepping out in two exquisite custom looks by Zuhair Murad. The first was a custom chocolate-brown chiffon gown featuring an asymmetric one-shoulder neckline with a cape-like sleeve, cinched at the waist and adorned with draped detailing on the bodice.
The second dazzled with an embellished metallic bodice, an off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline, and a draped scarf. She completed her ensembles with statement jewels by the Parisian jeweler Jovadi. Stately as ever, Tiffany exuded beauty and poise. Wishing the couple endless happiness in this new chapter — America eagerly awaits the arrival of the family’s newest addition.
Kai Trump: Our Favorite Rising Star
In the whirlwind that is the Trump comeback, we are not only thrilled to have a president who keeps us captivated with daily press conferences but also by the ascent of his all-star granddaughter, Kai Trump. The youngest of the family, she’s quickly proving that she is a force. At the RNC, she didn’t just show up, she brought the stadium to their feet. Kai, a refreshing new voice in the public eye, is already carving her path, delivering YouTube content that speaks to a new generation.
At the inaugural festivities, dressed in Sherri Hill — American, timeless, and undeniably glamorous —Kai proved that stepping out of the golf course and into the spotlight is no small feat. Tomboyish but undeniably poised, she embraced her feminine side, proving that she doesn’t just wear the clothes — she makes them her own. As she heads to the University of Miami’s golf team next year, the world will surely be watching this rising star. We can’t wait to see where her journey takes her.
Lara Trump: Campaign Queen
If there’s one Trump who deserves a standing ovation for her relentless efforts to secure victory, it’s Lara Trump. Fresh off her tenure as RNC Co-Chair, Lara is the picture of strength, resilience, and determination — looking more radiant and refreshed than ever. From rally stages to the inaugural stage, she continues to dazzle with her presence.
For the three inaugural balls following the ceremony, Lara tapped friend and Miami-based designer Oscar Gracia-Lopez to craft her custom look. At the Candlelight Dinner, she stole the show in a Chiara Boni — a dress with a shimmering, liquid-like effect that perfectly captured the “golden age” this administration promises to usher in.
If you missed The Conservateur’s exclusive photoshoot with Lara, featuring designs by none other than Oscar Gracia-Lopez, head to our archives to see the magic at Mar-a-Lago. Our forever cover girl delivered unforgettable moments that are still buzzing.
The 2025 inauguration marked not just the beginning of a new political chapter but a reawakening of style, grace, and unapologetic femininity on the national stage. Between Melania’s bold embrace of American designers, Ivanka’s reinvention of timeless classics, Lara’s tireless campaign glamour, and Usha Vance’s refined debut, the women in the Trump orbit have proven they are more than figures of beauty — they are icons of influence.
As the administration takes shape, we look forward to more moments of brilliance from these women who understand the weight of their roles and the opportunity to inspire. In this new era, they remind us that elegance is not just about what you wear — it’s about how you carry yourself, and they carry it flawlessly. The world is watching, and the Trump women are shining.
Be sure to follow along through the lens of some of our favorite photographers, including Andrea Hanks, Daniel Torok, Courtney Reed, and Regine Mahaux.
Isabelle Redfield is the co-founder and creative director at the Conservateur. Follow her on Instagram @isabelleredfield and X @isabelledwyerr
