Washington, February 21 – US First Lady Melania Trump donated her 2025 inaugural gown to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, stating that it demonstrated "America's fashion industry's ability to lead the rest of the world."
"The human spirit is captured in every stitch—the idea to persevere and rise above mediocrity—to achieve the highest level—America's destiny," Melania Trump said during the ceremony.
The gown is now part of the museum's historic First Ladies Collection. Established in 1912, the collection displays inaugural attire worn by First Ladies and remains one of the most visited exhibitions at the Smithsonian.
"Human nature resides in the discipline of detail. Everything is in the details," she said.
"This is not just a dress. It represents over 50 years of education, experience, and wisdom, realized with each thread, each stitch, each sharp edge."
Designed by Herve Pierre, the strapless off-white silk crepe gown is trimmed with black silk gazar. It was paired with a reproduction of a 1955 diamond brooch by Harry Winston, worn on a black ribbon choker.
The First Lady described the design as a tribute to American craftsmanship.
"It is a remarkable feat to create such a complex garment. Behind every true couture piece stands a skilled team of patternmakers, seamstresses, and artisans who transform a creative idea into reality," she said.
She added: "This demonstrates why America's fashion industry can lead the rest of the world."
The First Lady described the black and white contrast as "creating a mood rich with emotion" and called the gown "a modern silhouette, bold and dignified, and ruthlessly chic."
The presentation included remarks from Smithsonian Secretary Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III and Museum Director Anthea M. Hartig.
Melania Trump is the first non-consecutive First Lady to donate an inaugural gown for a second time. She is also the second First Lady in history to have two inaugural ball gowns represented in the collection, the previous being Ida McKinley in 1897 and 1901.
Visitors can view the gown at the National Museum of American History. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with free admission.
Reflecting on the creative process, Melania Trump said: "Personally, I enjoy the entire design process, from start to finish. It takes time and effort, but the end result is always magical."
"We must take pride not only in the small rituals of self-care, but in the courageous act of self-expression—our outward appearance to the world," she said.
She concluded: "I am honored to have our creative vision on display here, once again, within the walls of this institution, indefinitely."
The Smithsonian's First Ladies Collection spans more than a century and includes nearly 1,000 objects, ranging from gowns to personal effects and White House ephemera. The exhibition has long been seen as a cultural marker of changing styles and public roles of presidential spouses.