Melania Trump’s Inauguration Outfit Mocked for Resembling Michael Jackson
The first lady showed up to church on inauguration morning in a navy coat and hat.

Reuters/Getty Images
Melania Trump’s inauguration day outfit has a familiar look to it.
Many online have called out the soon-to-be first lady, who wore a navy coat and a flat-brimmed navy hat with an ivory stripe—as appearing like Michael Jackson in his “smooth criminal” era.
Many noted that Melania Trump’s inauguration day outfit resembled Michael Jackson’s iconic ‘fits.
Carlos Barria/REUTERS
“Is it just me,” one X user wrote, “or is Melania trying to imply that Trump is a ‘smooth criminal’ with this outfit choice?”

Michael Jackson during a 1997 concert.
Dave Hogan/Getty Images
Another added: “She looks Smooth Criminal era Michael Jackson at a funeral.”
Why is she dressed like Michael Jackson? pic.twitter.com/QJNflArnlh
— Ron Smith (@Ronxyz00) January 20, 2025
Not all of the remarks were of a mocking nature, however.
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“Melania is dressed like Michale Jackson and she is killing it!” said another. “Smooth criminal but more classy.”

Michael Jackson.
Getty Images
Women’s Wear Daily wrote that Melania’s outfit is an “all-American ensemble” by Adam Lippes—a change of pace for the native Slovenian, who typically opts for European designers. She wore a Christian Dior piece on election night.
Donald Trump, 78, made a surprising fashion decision of his own, opting to wear a purple tie instead of his typical red and occasional blue.
Donald Trump and Melania Trump walk during the inaugural parade from the U.S. Capitol in 2017.
POOL New/REUTERS
At her husband’s last inauguration, in 2017, Melania opted for a powder blue Ralph Lauren dress and coat that many likened to Jacqueline Kennedy.
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The 54-year-old has largely “opted for neutrals” since Election Day this time around, the New York Post reported.
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