American First Lady Melania Trump has donated a new gown to the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. The donation is the dress she wore during her husband, President Donald Trump's, inauguration ceremony in 2025. The official handover ceremony took place at the museum, where the dress was added to the collection of gowns worn by former First Ladies. Melania Trump attended the event in person, which included a short reception where the gown was unveiled to guests. The gown, designed by her longtime stylist Hervé Pierre, is notable for its black and white color scheme and unique cut. This donation marks the second time Melania Trump has contributed to the museum's collection. In 2017, she donated her inaugural white off-the-shoulder gown from her husband's first term, which is now part of the permanent collection. The museum's collection of First Ladies' gowns is one of its most popular exhibits, showcasing the evolution of the role of the First Lady over decades and how presidential wives have shaped America's cultural and political landscape. The collection includes gowns from prominent First Ladies such as Frances Cleveland, Lou Hoover, Jacqueline Kennedy, Laura Bush, Michelle Obama, and Jill Biden. The donation comes amidst public discussion about Melania Trump's public persona and initiatives. Some critics have drawn parallels to past controversies, such as the jacket she wore during a visit to detained migrant children that bore the phrase "I really don't care, do you?". Others have defended her, suggesting she is naturally reserved in public settings and that her demeanor should not be overly scrutinized. The event highlights the long-standing tradition at the Smithsonian of preserving and displaying the fashion of First Ladies as a significant part of American history and political symbolism.
