When it comes to high-profile State Visits, there’s always something that captures the public’s attention. This time, it wasn’t just the speeches, ceremonies, or motorcades that drew notice — it was First Lady Melania Trump’s bold fashion choice: her now-famous wide-brimmed hats.
From the moment she stepped off Marine One alongside President Donald Trump in the United Kingdom, Melania made an entrance. Dressed in a tailored Dior skirt suit, she paired the look with a dramatic violet hat. Its oversized brim partially shielded her face, immediately setting off conversations about both style and symbolism.
First Lady Melania Trump during meeting with members of the Scouts’ Squirrels program, Photo Credit: FLOTUS Report/X
Fashion watchers quickly pointed out that this wasn’t Melania’s first time leaning into such a powerful accessory. Her preference for dramatic headwear has become something of a signature, and experts believe there’s more to it than meets the eye.
Digital fashion editor Rivkie Baum told woman&home that Melania’s choice evokes “old-school Hollywood glamour” and enhances her luxury-driven wardrobe. “She frequently selects hats that cover the eyes, giving her that vintage, high-fashion feel,” Baum explained. “It’s glamorous, it’s bold, and it sends a clear message.”
First Lady Melania Trump during Inauguration Day, Photo Credit: FLOTUS Report/X
Her choice in London fit that description perfectly. The purple brim contrasted with the sleek Dior suit, making the entire outfit feel polished and theatrical. While few everyday wardrobes will include such a show-stopping accessory, stylists note that wide-brimmed hats in more neutral tones can elevate a fall outfit or complement countryside chic.
But fashion experts aren’t the only ones weighing in. Celebrity stylist and Vogue contributor Marian Kwei suggested there could be a deeper meaning. Speaking to the BBC, she theorized that the wide brim — which partly concealed Melania’s face — may have been a deliberate move to direct the spotlight onto the president. Notably, the hat’s hue also matched President Trump’s tie, signaling unity.
First Lady Melania Trump and Queen Camilla at the Arrival Ceremony at Windsor Castle, Photo Credit: Office of the First Lady/X
There’s another possibility as well: privacy. With her eyes shaded, Melania’s expressions are harder for the press to dissect. For a First Lady constantly under scrutiny, the ability to avoid having every glance turned into a headline might be a welcome relief.
This isn’t the first time Melania has chosen such an accessory for a moment of national importance. At President Trump’s inauguration, she wore a striking navy-and-white hat with a brim so wide it nearly bumped his forehead during a kiss. Later, at Buckingham Palace, she reached for another wide-brimmed design — again underlining that this is more than just a passing fashion preference.
First Lady Melania Trump at Buckingham Palace during 2019 visit, Photo Credit: FLOTUS Report/X
Big hats also convey authority and formality, giving an impression of gravity at official events. Whether it’s about style, symbolism, or simply personal comfort, Melania Trump’s headwear has become part of her signature look.
One thing is clear: whenever she steps out in one of these dramatic hats, the world notices. And in politics, as in fashion, commanding attention is often the entire point.
