Designer thinks Zelenskyy will swap polo shirts for a formal outfit with Trump.

Ukrainian President Zelenksy to Adopt Formal Attire for Meeting with Trump

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to wear a more formal outfit when he meets former President Donald Trump in Washington, DC, on Monday, according to fashion designers familiar with the preferences of European leaders.

Elvira Gasanova, a Ukrainian designer, suggested, “I doubt he’ll show up in Polo gear.” Instead, she believes he will likely choose a black military suit or perhaps a military-style shirt paired with appropriate trousers, maybe even a jacket.

Gasanova pointed out that Zelensky had previously faced criticism for his casual attire, stating he would probably aim for a “more serious look, less symbolic” this time around. “After the recent ‘no suit’ drama, he’s likely to reconsider his approach,” she added.

European Leaders Show Support for Ukraine

In light of the upcoming meeting, several European leaders are set to join, signaling their solidarity with Ukraine.

Past encounters have highlighted Zelensky’s casual wardrobe, including a notably tense Oval Office meeting in February. It escalated into a pointed discussion among leaders regarding what “cards” Ukraine held and whether Zelensky had sufficiently acknowledged U.S. support.

Zelensky Responds to Wardrobe Criticism

During that earlier meeting, a reporter questioned Zelensky’s choice not to wear formal attire. “Why don’t you wear a suit? You’re in a high-level office, and you refuse to wear one. Do you even own a suit?” the reporter pressed.

Interestingly, unlike many politicians, Zelensky does not have a personal stylist, according to Gasanova. She noted, “We’ve sent various outfits to his office—everything from traditional shirts to suits. But Volodymyr rarely has time to choose from them.” He apparently has only a few options, and given his fluctuating circumstances, it adds a layer of stress.

Meeting Background and Ongoing Conflicts

Gasanova explained that the intense pressures from the ongoing conflict with Russia have affected Zelensky physically, leading to weight fluctuations amidst his stressful role. Regular exercise helps him regain muscle mass, she mentioned.

Zelensky’s choice of attire this time remains open-ended. “I’m in Brussels right now, and I’ll decide what to wear tomorrow. It’s all on me,” she commented, hinting at a personal touch during a crucial moment.

The meeting comes just days after Trump’s discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, aimed at negotiating peace in Ukraine. This gathering marks the first significant U.S.-Russia summit since June 2021, during the Biden administration, which preceded significant escalations in the conflict.