
Melania Trump has always kept a low profile, but her new official White House portrait is making a splash. Released just one day after her husband’s inauguration as the 47th president of the United States, the black-and-white image immediately caught attention. It’s a sharp departure from past First Lady portraits, which have traditionally been full of vibrant colors and softer tones. This time, Melania, dressed in a sleek Dolce & Gabbana black pantsuit and a white shirt, chose a bold and powerful look that signals confidence and determination.
A New Look for the New First Lady
The portrait was taken on January 21, the day after the inauguration, by Belgian photographer Régine Mahaux in the Yellow Oval Room, a space reportedly favored by Melania. While many past First Ladies have opted for more traditionally styled and colorful images, Melania’s choice to go for a stark black-and-white style felt like a fresh statement. The Washington Monument in the background added an extra level of gravitas to the powerful image.
In 2017 Melania Trumps official WH portrait looked like someone who innocently thinks if her hubby helps America the media will report it.
In her 2017 WH portrait she looks like someone whose hubby was impeached twice, had two assassination attempts & was lied about repeatedly.… pic.twitter.com/SgYXYtun7N
— Mila Joy (@MilaLovesJoe) January 27, 2025
Though some criticized the image for appearing too heavily Photoshopped, others were quick to sing its praises. It seemed to capture Melania as a confident leader, poised and polished—very much in control of her role.
A Surprising Departure from the Norm
For some, the photo felt reminiscent of a fashion magazine cover, and fans even compared it to a Vogue spread, which was a surprising compliment given that Melania has long been snubbed by the magazine’s editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour. In fact, a few of Melania’s supporters even pointed out how she hadn’t received the same recognition as previous First Ladies. One super fan tweeted, “Who needs a Vogue cover and Annie Leibowitz photo spread when you have this?”
The portrait was shared on the official FLOTUS Instagram account, which has four million followers. While some followers were caught off guard by the sudden switch from Jill Biden’s account to Melania’s, they couldn’t help but express their admiration for the photo.
The Photoshop Controversy
However, not everyone was thrilled with the picture. Some social media critics immediately accused Melania of heavily editing the image, calling it a “heavily Photoshopped official photo.” On X (formerly Twitter), the photo was described by some as looking “plastic” and over-processed with “heavy softening and blurring filters.” These critics argued that the image didn’t look real or warm at all.
One commenter even said, “There’s nothing warm or real about this image.” And another added, “Photoshop deluxe.”
Despite these critiques, others defended Melania, calling her the “most elegant First Lady” and celebrating her beauty and sophistication.
Melania’s Confidence on Display
This official portrait isn’t just about a glamorous photo—it’s a clear statement of Melania’s evolution in her role as First Lady. Confident and focused, Melania is embracing her position with a boldness that wasn’t as evident during her first term. By choosing such a distinctive and dramatic image, she seems to be making it clear that she’s not afraid to stand out and take charge.
Whether people love it or criticize it, this new portrait represents a Melania Trump who’s ready to take on the spotlight, head on. With a powerful look and message, the image sets the tone for her second chapter in the White House.