Melania Trump Gives 2025 Inaugural Gown to Smithsonian Museum on February 20, 2026

Melania Trump's 2025 inaugural gown is now at the Smithsonian, joining over two dozen other gowns from past First Ladies. This donation marks a continuation of tradition for former First Ladies.
By Newsroom | US Politics, Fashion |

On Friday, February 20, 2026, former First Lady Melania Trump presented her 2025 inaugural ball gown to the Smithsonian Institution for inclusion in its collection. This act continues a long-standing custom where first ladies contribute their inaugural gowns to the national museum. The donation event took place at the museum, where the gown was displayed on a mannequin.

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Background of the Donation

Melania Trump, wife of former U.S. President Donald Trump, has now donated two inaugural gowns to the Smithsonian, marking a unique instance for a first lady with non-consecutive terms. The recent presentation involved a strapless white gown with black trim, designed by Hervé Pierre, who is also noted as her longtime stylist. Alongside the gown, a black neckpiece featuring a reproduction of a Harry Winston diamond brooch, which she wore to the inaugural balls in January, was also part of the donation.

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  • The ceremony included remarks from Smithsonian officials, such as Secretary Lonnie Bunch and museum director Anthea Hartig.

  • Melania Trump expressed her appreciation for fashion design and described the gown as holding significant meaning beyond its material form.

  • The ensemble was placed in a see-through case and later moved to the first ladies' exhibit, which already houses over two dozen inaugural gowns.

Melania Trump's Fashion and Legacy

The presentation of the gown allows for a historical record of Melania Trump's time as First Lady. Each first lady's sartorial choices are seen as a reflection of their era. Trump's appearance at the donation event, clad in a Bottega Veneta jacket, black trousers, and Christian Louboutin boots, was noted by observers.

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  • Melania Trump highlighted her personal connection to the design process of the gown, referencing its appearance in a documentary.

  • The act of donation has been framed as a way for her to leave a fashion mark on history.

Smithsonian's First Ladies Collection

The Smithsonian's first ladies' exhibit serves as a repository of historical fashion and a testament to the roles and times of the women who have served as First Lady. The inclusion of Melania Trump's 2025 inaugural gown adds another piece to this historical narrative.

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  • The museum's press release indicated the addition of the gown to its "Historic First Ladies Collection."

  • The exhibit allows the public to view these significant garments and understand their historical context.

Evidence and Sources

The information presented is drawn from reports by the Associated Press (AP), The Guardian, PBS NewsHour, The Independent, the New York Post, and the Smithsonian Institution's press releases. These sources confirm the date, participants, and nature of the donation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What did Melania Trump donate to the Smithsonian on February 20, 2026?
Melania Trump donated her white strapless inaugural ball gown from 2025, designed by Hervé Pierre, and a black neckpiece with a diamond brooch reproduction. This continues a tradition of First Ladies donating their gowns.
Q: Where is Melania Trump's donated gown now?
The gown is now part of the Smithsonian's "Historic First Ladies Collection" at the museum. It was displayed on a mannequin and will be available for the public to view.
Q: Why did Melania Trump donate her inaugural gown?
She donated it to preserve a piece of fashion history and her time as First Lady, following a long-standing custom. She noted the gown holds significant meaning beyond its material.
Q: When was Melania Trump's inaugural gown donated?
The donation event happened on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C.
Q: Who else was at the donation event for Melania Trump's gown?
Smithsonian officials like Secretary Lonnie Bunch and museum director Anthea Hartig were present to accept the donation and speak about its historical importance.