The portrait was a black-and-white composition exuding authority and poise. Melania leaned forward, her hands placed firmly on a reflective glass table, wearing a tailored black suit paired with a crisp white shirt and high-waisted trousers. Her cascading waves of hair framed her features, while understated makeup highlighted her piercing gaze. Behind her, the grand windows of the White House revealed the Washington Monument, subtly emphasizing her connection to the nation’s historical and political heart.

While some praised the portrait as “classy” and “beautiful,” others criticized it, speculating about retouching and describing it as overly stylized. Despite the polarized opinions, the image became a defining moment, further cementing Melania’s enigmatic public image.

The portrait was taken by Régine Mahaux, a Belgian photographer who has worked with the Trump family for over two decades. Mahaux, who also photographed Melania’s 2017 portrait, spoke about her admiration for the First Lady’s perfectionism and involvement in the creative process. The carefully curated image reflected not just Melania’s elegance but also a sense of authority and restraint. Experts noted how her assertive stance projected strength while the reflective table introduced a subtle boundary, maintaining an air of mystery.