Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in January 2025.

In January 2025, former First Lady Melania Trump drew significant attention at former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral—not for her words, but for her wardrobe. Amid a sea of traditional black attire, Melania stood out in a black Valentino coat featuring an oversized white collar adorned with Renaissance-style artwork. The bold design quickly became a trending topic, prompting questions about its intent and symbolism.

Melania is known for her preference for refined, high-end European fashion, often choosing brands like Dior and Dolce & Gabbana. The coat, part of a 2019 collaboration between Valentino’s Pierpaolo Piccioli and Japanese designer Jun Takahashi, marked a rare departure from her typically understated style. The dramatic collar and its imagery ignited speculation online about whether she was making a statement.

Historically, Melania has avoided overt political messaging through fashion. Her most controversial exception remains the 2018 “I Really Don’t Care, Do U?” jacket worn during a visit to a migrant children’s shelter, which drew widespread criticism. In her memoir, Melania claimed it was directed at the media, while her former press secretary suggested the message was influenced by Donald Trump.

At Carter’s funeral, Melania’s demeanor appeared reserved as she sat beside her husband, who shared a moment of levity with former President Barack Obama. Some observers interpreted her expression as disinterest, contrasting sharply with the symbolic potential of the romantic imagery on her collar.

Reactions to the outfit varied. Some speculated it signaled a more experimental phase for Melania, while others believed it was simply a unique fashion choice without deeper meaning. Regardless, it once again underscored her ability to generate headlines through style alone.

Unlike Michelle Obama or Jill Biden, who often support emerging designers and accessible brands, Melania’s fashion remains more about polished, controlled elegance. And with this latest appearance, she continues to keep the public guessing.