Melania Trump donates her white and black-trimmed inaugural ball gown to the Smithsonian - Associated Press News
AP News
February 20, 2026
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Melania Trump has donated her iconic white and black-trimmed inaugural ball gown to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. This elegant dress, worn by the former First Lady at the 2017 presidential inauguration, is now preserved as a significant cultural artifact, reflecting the changing role of fashion in U.S. politics. The donation marks a continuation of a tradition started by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who donated her inaugural gown to the museum in 1965. Melania Trump’s decision to part with her own gown highlights its historical and symbolic importance, further cementing it as a piece of American heritage.
The gown, designed by Italian fashion label Marchesa, is a stunning example of modern bridal wear, featuring an intricate lace bodice and long train. It was a key moment in Melania Trump’s personal style during her time in the White House, often used to convey elegance and sophistication. By donating this garment, she joins a select group of First Ladies who have chosen to preserve their inaugural attire for future generations. This act not only honors the tradition but also underscores the significance of fashion as a tool for storytelling and cultural preservation.
The Smithsonian’s acquisition of Melania Trump’s gown is part of its broader mission to document and celebrate American history through artifacts that hold cultural and historical value. The museum has long been a repository for significant pieces of attire, including First Lady inaugural gowns, which serve as tangible connections to the nation’s past. This latest addition will likely attract attention from historians, fashion enthusiasts, and visitors eager to explore the intersection of politics and style.
For readers interested in fashion history or the role of First Ladies
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Originally published on AP News on 2/20/2026