Melania Trump donated her white and black-trimmed inaugural ball gown to the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History on Friday, continuing a longstanding tradition of first ladies preserving their formal wear for the public record. The strapless sheath gown, designed by Herve Pierre and paired with a reproduction Harry Winston diamond brooch, joins the museum’s First Ladies Collection.
Melania Trump continued a tradition observed by first ladies for decades when she donated her white and black-trimmed inaugural ball gown to the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History on Friday. The strapless sheath, designed by Herve Pierre, was added to the museum’s First Ladies Collection, which features more than two dozen inaugural gowns spanning American political history.
The gown, which she wore on January 20, 2025, is adorned with a black Z-shaped design on the front bodice and paired with a reproduction of a Harry Winston diamond brooch. The donation marks the second inaugural gown Melania Trump has contributed to the Smithsonian, following the donation of her 2017 gown.
The Gown’s Design
At the museum ceremony, Melania Trump explained the inspiration behind the gown’s design.
“This is more than 50 years of education, experience, and wisdom realized with each thread, each stitch, each sharp edge,” she said of the gown. “The meticulously formed black shape ‘Z’ on the front bodice summons decades of my early memories, life experiences, and influences. And, all of these stories are tucked deep within its crisp, strong seams — forever.”
She noted that the black and white color combination was deliberately chosen. “The black and white sets a mood rich with emotion,” she said. “This dress speaks with a distinct point of view, a modern silhouette, bold and dignified, and ruthlessly chic.”
Melania Trump, a former fashion model, characterized fashion design as another form of creative expression. After her remarks, the mannequin displaying the gown was taken upstairs to be incorporated into the First Ladies exhibit. Following the ceremony, she and designer Pierre viewed the gown in its display case. “It’s incredible. It’s a historic moment,” she said.
Preserving Presidential Fashion
The National Museum of American History reopened to the public Friday afternoon. The practice of donating inaugural gowns to the Smithsonian is part of a long tradition in American political life, preserving a record of presidencies and the fashion choices made on their most ceremonial occasions.