Melania Trumps New First-Lady Portrait Is Causing A Stir
When you become the First Lady of the United States, the spotlight is always on you, and that’s especially true for Melania Trump. As the wife of a president who attracts constant attention, she is frequently in the public eye. One of the traditions that comes with this role is the official portrait, a lasting image of the First Lady that will be remembered for years. Melania, known for her elegance and impeccable attention to detail, often approaches these portraits as more than just a photograph—they are works of art.
Every time a new portrait is released, discussions and debates inevitably follow, with people scrutinizing her appearance and attire. Criticism is common, but Melania occasionally surprises people with her choice of direction, shifting expectations in subtle ways.
The latest official portrait, taken on January 21, 2025, by photographer Régine Mahaux, has sparked its own wave of reactions. In this black-and-white photo, Melania’s poised figure stands out against the backdrop of the Yellow Oval Room in the White House, her office. Mahaux, reflecting on the experience, said, “It was an honor to be chosen to shoot this official portrait for the second time. As an artist, working with such an inspiring woman is a great privilege. She is a perfectionist and is deeply involved in the creative process.”
In the portrait, Melania adopts a strong, confident pose, leaning slightly forward with her hands placed firmly on the table. The iconic Washington Monument is visible in the background, adding a sense of gravitas to the image.
The release of this portrait quickly brought comparisons to Melania’s 2017 image. Back then, she faced some backlash for prominently showcasing a 25-carat diamond ring given to her by Donald Trump. The visible display of such wealth sparked criticism, with many deeming it “tone-deaf” and insensitive given the broader challenges many people face.
In the 2025 portrait, Melania is dressed in a sleek dark suit paired with a crisp white shirt. Her nails are perfectly manicured, and her subtle smile exudes a quiet strength. While some praised her appearance, others noted the differences between this portrait and the previous one. Questions arose regarding her body language, with some suggesting that her pose was neutral, even detached. Body language expert Inbaal Honigman weighed in, saying, “She sits still in her model pose, her facial expression neutral, not drawing any attention to herself, allowing all the focus to be on her husband.”
This new portrait, like its predecessors, invites mixed opinions, but it remains a striking representation of the First Lady’s presence and her influence in the public eye.