Melania Trump’s Inaugural Gown Donated to Smithsonian

First Lady Melania Trump’s 2025 inaugural gown is now on display in the First Ladies Gallery at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. This significant event took place on February 20, 2026, where she was joined by Hervé Pierre, the designer of the gown.

During a ceremony at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, Melania expressed her pride in seeing the striking black-and-white ballgown added to the prestigious collection. She emphasized that the dress represents “more than 50 years of education, experience and wisdom realized with each thread.” She described it as “bold, dignified, and ruthlessly chic,” positioning it as a true reflection of “America’s pure spirit of originality, superior engineering, and boundless creativity.”

The gown, designed by Pierre, features a strapless silhouette with a white silk crepe bodice, accented by two distinct black silk gazar bands. Melania highlighted the piece as a testament to the originality and excellence of the American fashion industry.

This particular dress is prominently featured in her upcoming documentary, “Melania,” which will be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video after its theatrical debut. Alongside the gown, Melania also donated a replica of the 1955 Harry Winston brooch that she wore during the inauguration, which she notably styled with a black ribbon choker.

Melania’s last visit to the Smithsonian Gallery was in 2017 when she donated the gown from her husband’s first inaugural ball. The 2025 dress marks the 26th addition to the collection, a tradition that began in 1909 with Helen Herron Taft, wife of President William Howard Taft.

The exhibit is open and free to the public, allowing visitors to appreciate the history and significance of each First Lady’s contribution.

Lonnie Bunch, secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, expressed gratitude to Mrs. Trump for her donation, highlighting how each First Lady has impacted both the White House and the nation, reflecting the era in which they served.