Melania Trump in India – what political statements did the First Lady’s wardrobe make? (and which brands were in her suitcase?)
Fashion critics applauded Melania’s thoughtfulness in subtly honouring India’s heritage through fashion – what do you think of her exotic sash at the Taj Mahal?
During her recent state visit to India, there was much to chew on in the fashion choices of Melania Trump.
The First Lady accompanied her husband, US President Donald Trump, along with his daughter and son-in-law Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, for a three-day state trip which ended on Wednesday (February 26).
From a state banquet in New Delhi, with the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his wife Jashodaben Narendrabhai Modi, to a happiness class, the US first lady put on a display of her sophisticated wardrobe.
For her first visit to India, she opted for a range of American designer clothes, mixing and matching with labels from other countries – including India.
The US first lady’s sartorial choices are readily interpreted for hidden clues – such as with the Zara jacket printed with “I really don’t care, do u?” she wore to visit detained migrant children in Texas. Could the fashion choices in India offer a counterargument to her husband’s America-first policy?
Upon her arrival and for her tour to the Taj Mahal, Melania wore a formal jumpsuit in her signature white, which is my personal favourite of all the ensembles she wore in India. It was a design by French-American fashion designer Hervé Pierre, who is her long-term dresser. She added an Eastern touch by cinching the waist with a emerald green brocade sash.
Pierre said the sash was made of green silk and gold metallic thread, cut from vintage Indian textile as a homage to the host nation.
