A commanding power pose — that’s how many would describe Melania Trump’s recent official photo, released by the White House.
But there’s another detail that stands out.
As First Lady, Melania has always brought her own style and grace to the White House, and her portraits often spark conversation about her personality and place in American history. This latest black-and-white portrait is no different, capturing both strength and elegance. Taken by Belgian photographer Régine Mahaux in January 2025, the photo was shot in the Yellow Oval Room, one day after her husband’s inauguration. Mahaux, who has worked with the Trump family for over two decades, called it an honor to photograph Melania again.
In the portrait, Melania strikes a commanding pose, leaning forward slightly with her hands on a table, while the Washington Monument looms in the background.
This image is a sharp contrast to her 2017 portrait. Back then, Melania faced backlash for prominently displaying her 25-carat diamond ring, seen as tone-deaf given its $3 million value. In the 2025 photo, she’s dressed in a dark suit with a crisp white shirt and perfectly styled hair, radiating power and authority. Her 2017 portrait, on the other hand, was softer and more approachable, with Melania in a black blazer and offering a gentle smile.
The shift in tone between the two portraits has sparked mixed reactions. Some have praised her new, stronger image, while others have criticized her expression as cold. One user on X commented, “Her revenge tour is going to be awesome!” Meanwhile, others noted how far we’ve come since Hillary Clinton’s pant suit sparked criticism years ago.
As with many political figures, opinions on the photo are divided. Some think Melania’s expression is distant, while others admire the boldness of the new look. Regardless of opinion, it’s clear that this photo, like many moments of her time as First Lady, will leave an impression. Does this new image reflect a shift in how we view the role of First Lady, or is it simply a reflection of the times?
