Ivanka Trump’s Audrey Hepburn-Inspired Inauguration Gown Sparks Online Debate
In case you missed it, Donald Trump, known for his polarizing persona and unrelenting presence in the media, was sworn in as President of the United States for a second term earlier this week. The day marked the real-estate mogul’s return to the Oval Office after his first tenure from 2017 to 2021.
As expected, nearly every detail of the inauguration was dissected under the internet’s relentless microscope. From rumors about Elon Musk’s alleged gestures to speculations surrounding Melania Trump’s fashion choices, no moment escaped scrutiny. Even Barron Trump’s casual exchanges with Joe Biden sparked a frenzy of amateur lip-reading attempts.
Among the myriad of highlights, one topic ignited particularly fervent discussion: Ivanka Trump’s choice of attire for the Liberty Ball.
The Dress That Turned Heads
It appears that Ivanka Trump is wearing Givenchy tonight. This is a recreation of the iconic 1954 Haute Couture black and white gown that was originally designed for Audrey Hepburn, for the movie Sabrina pic.twitter.com/lUPONCkKCk
— Remoulade Sauce (@Remisagoodboy) January 21, 2025
Ivanka, who played an advisory role during her father’s first term, stepped into the spotlight wearing a gown that paid homage to one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century, Audrey Hepburn. Her dress was a modern reinterpretation of the stunning piece Hepburn famously wore in the 1954 classic Sabrina.
The original gown, crafted by legendary designer Hubert de Givenchy, was both timeless and unforgettable. Ivanka’s version, reportedly designed by the French fashion house Givenchy, featured a sleek white base adorned with black floral embroidery and a delicate train. To complete the look, she donned black opera gloves, stiletto heels, a diamond choker, and a classic chignon hairstyle, evoking the elegance Hepburn was known for.
Mixed Reactions from the Internet
While Ivanka’s ensemble earned admiration from some for its sophistication, it also sparked a wave of criticism. The internet, true to form, had plenty to say.
One critic wrote, “The details just don’t hit the mark—it feels more like a parody than a tribute.” Another remarked, “Hepburn’s original design had an unmatched grace, and this version pales in comparison.”
Some took a more personal approach, suggesting Hepburn herself would have been appalled. “Audrey Hepburn fought against everything the Trump family represents. Using her legacy like this is beyond disrespectful,” one user claimed.
On the flip side, there were plenty who appreciated Ivanka’s tribute to Hepburn. Many social media users praised her elegance, calling the gown a “stunning choice” and an “unforgettable nod to timeless fashion.”
A Family Connection
Interestingly, Hepburn’s son, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, offered a different perspective. Speaking to DailyMail, he acknowledged the ties between his mother’s legacy and the Trump family.
“It’s not surprising that Ivanka would look to my mother as a source of inspiration. Audrey was the epitome of elegance and class, and it’s fitting for an occasion as significant as this,” Ferrer said. He also noted the symbolic timing, which coincided with Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the anniversary of his mother’s passing.
Stepping Away from Politics
Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, have made it clear they will not be resuming roles in the White House during Donald Trump’s second term.
As for the dress, it remains a point of contention in the ever-divisive world of online discourse. Whether viewed as a beautiful homage or a misguided attempt, one thing is certain: Ivanka’s fashion choices continue to make headlines.
What’s your take on the gown? Did it capture the spirit of Audrey Hepburn’s iconic style, or do you think it missed the mark? Share your thoughts, and join the conversation!