Melania Trump’s funny look

At Donald Trump’s second inauguration, Melania Trump drew attention with a daring hat that didn’t fail to provoke reactions. This Monday, January 20, on Capitol Hill, the former model sported a navy blue boater designed by Eric Javits to match her coat. Her low visor, concealing half her face, generated mockery and debate on social networks.

A theatrical and symbolic prop

The hat, the centerpiece of her outfit, was created in collaboration with Melania Trump’s personal stylist, Hervé Pierre. Eric Javits, interviewed by Women’s Wear Daily, clarified that he had not met Melania directly, but had worked on proposals validated by her. This imposing accessory, wrapped in white fabric, immediately sparked absurd comparisons, notably with fictional characters such as McDonald’s Hamburglar.

Theories and criticism on social networks

Internet users seized on the images of Melania, suggesting that her choice of hat was intended to prevent Donald Trump from approaching her. An excerpt from the ceremony, in which Trump appears to forgo giving her a kiss, reinforced this hypothesis. Some saw continuity with previous episodes, such as this gesture in 2017 in Tel Aviv, where Melania had appeared to refuse to take her husband’s hand.

Indirect political communication

The reactions to this accessory are reminiscent of the way in which Melania Trump, despite her seemingly self-effacing role, uses her image to convey subtle messages. The hat, while designed for aesthetic appeal, is seen by some as a means of expressing distancing from Donald Trump.

Elegance aside, this outfit is yet another example of how Melania Trump polarizes public opinion, making every detail of her appearances open to interpretation and controversy.

Also read: Bernard Arnault, front row at Donald Trump’s inauguration