If you’ve been keeping up with recent events, you might know that Ivanka Trump was in the spotlight again during her father’s swearing-in ceremony as president.
This marked the beginning of Donald Trump’s second term as the President of the United States, having previously served from 2017 to 2021.
The inauguration was a day full of attention-grabbing moments and sparked many conversations online. People couldn’t stop discussing every detail — from Elon Musk’s alleged “Nazi salute” move to Melania Trump’s curious choice of hat, not to mention the lip-readers trying to figure out what Barron Trump whispered to President Joe Biden.
On such a significant day, nothing seemed to escape the public’s scrutiny, and even a dress could become a hot topic for debate. Ivanka Trump, who previously served as an advisor during her father’s first term, donned a dress that would quickly catch everyone’s attention.
It’s important to note that, generally speaking, people should have the freedom to wear what they like without facing backlash (within reason, of course).
However, the internet follows its own rules, and comments can often overlook manners and respect. As a result, celebrities often find themselves on the receiving end of critiques about their style, clothing choices, and much more.
The gown in question, worn by Ivanka on Inauguration Day at the Liberty Ball, was inspired by the iconic actress Audrey Hepburn. The dress was modeled after the one Hepburn wore in the 1954 film Sabrina.
It was originally designed by Hubert de Givenchy, making it a standout piece in the fashion world.
Ivanka’s version was a white gown featuring a short train and beautifully intricate black floral embroidery. To complement the look, she adorned herself with a chignon hairstyle, a diamond necklace, classic stiletto heels, and elbow-length black opera gloves, mirroring Hepburn’s timeless style.
However, as is often the case today, while many admired her stunning appearance, there were voices of dissent. One internet critic remarked, “The longer I look at the details, the more laughable this becomes.” A
nother chimed in, saying, “The texture and the embroidery on Ivanka’s version look cartoonish, and it lacks the same finesse.” Others felt the Hepburn connection was misplaced, expressing, “Audrey Hepburn would curse them all.
She didn’t survive WWII and resist what the Trump family signifies just to have her dress used like this. It’s shameful.”
Yet another comment came, “Audrey would have hated Ivanka and her family.” Such remarks reveal just one side of the story, as several people also praised Ivanka’s choice of attire for such a significant occasion.
Adding to this mixture of opinions was Sean Hepburn Ferrer, Audrey’s son, who noted that it was no surprise Ivanka looked to his mother for inspiration due to Audrey’s legendary status in elegance and class.
He mentioned, “It is understandable she admired our mother, a household name we grew up with, to draw upon her grace for this occasion – the inauguration coinciding with the 32nd anniversary of our mother’s passing and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Quite a blend!”
It’s evident Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, won’t rejoin the White House staff during Donald Trump’s subsequent term. What are your thoughts? Did Ivanka’s gown leave an impression on you? Feel free to share your reflections.