Many people would characterize the official portrait of Melania Trump that the White House recently issued as a commanding power position.
However, there is another element that catches the attention of those with an acute eye.
Portrait in black and white
Melania Trump has contributed her own distinct elegance and flair to the White House in her role as First Lady of the United States.
Melania Trump is renowned for her grace and attention to detail, and her official photographs have never been merely pictures. People have been encouraged to examine her style, personality, and role in American history more closely as a result of the numerous discussions and arguments they have generated.
The White House’s most recent image is no different; it exudes strength and elegance while revealing some nuanced elements that pique viewers’ interest.
According to the first lady’s office, the famous photographer Régine Mahaux took this black-and-white portrait on January 21, 2025, at the White House’s Yellow Oval Room. Mahaux, a Belgian photographer, has been taking pictures of the Trump family for more than 20 years.
“Being selected to take this official portrait for the second time was truly an honor,” Ms. Mahaux told the BBC.
Working with a woman who inspires me as an artist is a huge honor. She truly participates in the creative process and is a perfectionist.
The first lady is shown in the official photo leaning forward a little and holding her hands firmly on a table in a strong power position. In the distance, the imposing Washington Monument dominates the nation’s capital’s skyline.
Have you noticed the change?
Numerous people have noted that Melania Trump, a former fashion model, looks very different in her 2025 portrait than she does in her official 2017 image.
One specific element in Melania’s official portrait back in 2017 sparked a lot of criticism. She showed off her 25-carat diamond ring, which President Donald Trump gave her in 2014. Wearing the ostentatious sparkler, which is said to be worth $3 million, was criticized for coming across as rude and tone deaf.
She’s wearing a fine dark suit and a white shirt, her hair combed in loose waves, and her nails neatly manicured in her most recent black-and-white photo, which was taken the day after her husband was sworn in as president.
Compare that to the softer, more casual feel of her 2017 image. Melania was wearing a black jacket, her arms crossed, and she was smiling softly in that color, soft-focus picture. There is a clear contrast between the two portraits: 2025 exudes strength and authority, whereas 2017 leans more toward warmth and elegance.
According to Fox News, one member on X wrote, “Melanie is out for revenge this time.”
“Her revenge tour is going to be awesome!” said another.
Another perceptive Facebook user also noted that Hillary Clinton was dressed in a trouser suit. A great deal of criticism was expressed. I recall. Since then, I believe we’ve made great progress. Although, I must say, it’s a little unusual from a First Lady shot, she still looks stunning, and I adore the black and white image. We live in a new era!
“At least she’s dressed up.”
Opinions were sharply split, as is sometimes the case with political figures. Reactions to the snapshot were swiftly divided in the comments section after it was posted on ABC’s Facebook page. Melania’s face struck many critics as distant and frigid; some even bemoaned the fact that she was unable to muster a smile for the event. The photo’s startling tone seemed to evoke as much debate as praise.
She appears to have been instructed by the photographer to appear as cruel as Donald in his official portrait. “What a pair,” a user said.
In contrast to her previous photos, at least she is dressed, someone else commented.
It is reasonable to anticipate that Melania will take a different approach because she is reportedly lot more ready to enter the White House this time.
Inbaal Honigman, another body language specialist, claims that she behaved differently at this inauguration than she did in 2017.
“During the 2025 inauguration, Melania’s body language is neutral and still,” Inbaal told Covers.com. She maintains her model position while sitting motionless and maintaining a neutral expression on her face, allowing her spouse to be the center of attention.
This picture, like so many of her moments as First Lady, is sure to make an impact, whether you like it or think it’s too far away. What are your thoughts? Is this daring new style a reflection of the times we live in, or does it mark a change in our understanding of the First Lady’s role?
About The Author
