Melania Trump at 50: the only US first lady to be a former lingerie model, speak 5 languages – and face conspiracy theories about using a body double
The first supermodel-turned-first lady in history – and the first American president’s wife in almost 200 years to be born outside the US – ‘The Slovenian Sphinx’ has smashed conventions with a steely glare and sky-high stilettos
Melania Trump is a first lady unlike any other. She's the only first lady in almost 200 years to be born outside the US, and she's the only first lady whose native language isn't English. Trump is also the first lady to be a former lingerie model. Her actions as the first lady of the US have similarly broken from tradition, winning over loyal fans and sparking questions from conspiracy theorists alike. Trump has become known for her fashion choices, with fans applauding her designer outfits and critics slamming her expensive tastes.
On Sunday, April 26, she celebrated her 50th birthday. Here's what we know about the mysterious first lady – and the conspiracies and controversies that have dogged her during her husband’s presidency.
Melania Trump was born in Slovenia in 1970, making her the only first lady to have been born outside the US other than Louisa Catherine Johnson, the wife of John Quincy Adams; who was born in England, though her father was an American merchant.
She started modelling in the late 80s and moved to New York City to pursue a career in 1996. While modelling in Europe, Melania reportedly learned to speak five languages, making her the most linguistically gifted first lady in American history. Once she moved to New York, friends say that Trump avoided parties, choosing instead to exercise, go to bed early and eat healthily, friends say. She reportedly consumes seven pieces of fruit a day.
Donald Trump met Melania at a party in 1998, which he attended with another date. Melania refused to give him her number at first, but later asked for his and ended up calling him a few days later, or so the story goes.
