'A masterclass in power dressing': Cork stylist decodes Melania Trump's inauguration outfit
Melania Trump opted for an Adam Lippes navy outfit with an accompanying Eric Javits hat for the 60th Presidential Inauguration in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol in Washington. Picture: Chip Somodevilla/Pool Photo via AP.
The internet had a lot to say today following Donald Trump’s inauguration on Monday which saw him sworn in as the 47th President of the United States.
From Barron Trump’s height to interpreting exchanges between former presidents, the internet had a field day.
But it was Melania Trump’s choice of outfit and THAT hat - which led to the awkward air kiss shared between the Trumps - that had people talking.
So, why did Melania Trump choose the Adam Lippes navy outfit with the accompanying Eric Javits hat? What did the outfit's colour represent? And what statement was she making?
Decoding the First Lady of the United States’ outfit choice, Cork-based stylist and certified image consultant Breeda O’Connell described it as a statement of power, presence and patriotism.
Speaking to the O’Connell said: “Melania Trump's navy coat dress and boater hat were a masterclass in power dressing: understated, restrained, yet impossible to ignore.
“Designed by American designers Adam Lippes (core outfit) and Eric Javits (hat), the look wasn't just about style; it was a nod to patriotism, perfectly aligning with the Trump administration’s ‘Made in America’ message.
“The deep navy silk wool coat dress, paired with a matching pencil skirt and an ivory silk crepe blouse, created a sleek and commanding silhouette.
“With its sharp tailoring, double-breasted cut, and those killer heels, the outfit had a definite edge: strong, structured, and with just the right amount of masculinity to make a statement.
“It was a stark contrast to the soft, powder blue Ralph Lauren ensemble she wore in 2017, signalling a shift from traditional first-lady elegance to something much more authoritative.”
Speaking about the outfit’s colour, O’Connell said the choice of navy was no coincidence and was “the ultimate power move”.
“It’s the colour of leadership, stability, and professionalism, with links to military and corporate uniforms. It says, ‘I’m in control’, while still carrying a sense of sophistication and dependability,” she said.
“By stepping away from the softer, more welcoming hues associated with first ladies, Melania made it clear - she was here to be taken seriously, standing as an equal to her husband, not just in his shadow.”
Speaking about one of the biggest talking points of not just Melania’s outfit, but of the inauguration ceremony itself, O’Connell said the Eric Javits hat created a sense of mystery and distance - both literally and symbolically.
“Then there’s the hat. A real talking point. The wide-brimmed boater style was more than just a fashion choice; it was a power play,” she said.
By partially obscuring her face, it created a sense of mystery and distance, literally and symbolically. As they say, the eyes are the windows to the soul, and with this look, Melania kept those windows firmly shut.
“The structured, almost masculine style of the hat added to the outfit's cool, detached vibe, emphasising control and restraint.
“It’s also worth noting that this was the first time a first lady had worn a hat on Inauguration Day since Hillary Clinton in 1993, making it a standout choice.”
O’Connell noted that while the look was sharp and authoritative, it was also undeniably elegant.
“The nipped waist and the chic navy-and-ivory palette kept things refined and stylish, showing that while Melania was making a statement, she wasn’t sacrificing an ounce of grace,” she said.
“In the end, this outfit was more than just clothes: it was a carefully crafted message. Melania stepped onto the stage not just as a supporting act, but as a formidable presence in her own right. With this look, she told the world: 'I’m here, I’m strong, and I’m in control'.”
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