US3 min(s) read
Melania Trump slammed over 'ridiculous' outfit choice during Xi Jinping White House state dinner
Melania Trump has faced backlash for her choice of outfit following Thursday’s meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who arrived in Washington, D.C., to visit Donald Trump at the White House.
Melania found herself at the center of attention after attending the state dinner wearing an outfit that some social media users felt was too casual for such a formal occasion.
Melania's expensive outfit
Rather than choosing a traditional evening gown or skirt, as is often customary, Melania opted for an entirely different look.
Turning out in a pair of high-waisted black Dolce & Gabbana pants, reportedly costing $1,945, Melania paired them with a white Saint Laurent blouse featuring a high collar and oversized bow at the neck, priced at around $2,300.
That put the cost of the outfit at approximately $4,245 before factoring in her shoes and accessories.
The first lady completed the look with black pointed-toe heels and diamond stud earrings. She wore her signature glamorous makeup while styling her honey-blonde hair swept away from her face.
Social media responds to Melania's 'casual' outfit
Her fashion choice quickly sparked a reaction online, with some X users questioning whether pants were appropriate for the black-tie occasion.
One critic wrote: "Melania needs a new wardrobe designer. She looked like she was going to a funeral in one shot then in another that big bow is just ridiculous and pants? COME ON YOU HAVE A DUTY TO LOOK RESPECTABLE AND FASHIONABLE NOT LIKE SOMETHING OUT OF A FAIRY TALE."
Another person was similarly unimpressed, posting: "Melania should have worn a skirt or a dress. That outfit is too casual. She’s always impeccable. This is a miss."
The criticism came as the White House hosted Xi for a major diplomatic visit.
Xi arrived at Joint Base Andrews the previous day, where he was welcomed by President Trump, 80. His schedule included meetings with the president before the state dinner, which was held in the White House East Room.
Trump and Xi discussed several major issues during their talks, including trade, artificial intelligence and national security.
Before the dinner, Melania offered followers a glimpse behind the scenes, sharing details of the preparations on social media.
"THE WHITE HOUSE STATE DINNER. Every detail considered. An experience thoughtfully conceived and exquisitely realized for our distinguished guests," she wrote.
She accompanied the message with a nine-second black-and-white video showing preparations for the event, including the invitation card welcoming Trump's "distinguished guests" to the dinner.
Trump has previously spoken warmly about Xi despite ongoing tensions between the United States and China, describing the Chinese leader as a "great leader" and a "strong man."
A White House statement also said: "President Trump has invited several great American business leaders to his dinner with President Xi because he will always prioritize making good deals for our country."