When fashion speaks for the first ladies: The quiet power of Olena Zelenska overruns the flamboyant luxury of cold Melanie Trump
When someone says first lady, besides her official role, most people also instantly remember her unique style. Fashion is a significant part of their public appearances, expressing their status, sending signals, and emphasizing character and cultural identity. Olena Zelenská, the first lady of Ukraine, and Melania Trump, the first lady of the United States, are two prominent women from completely different worlds. Despite this, each found her own strong fashion voice. How does their style differ and what does it say about them?
The position of the First Lady is not just about representation alongside the President. It's a role that captivates the attention of the public, press, and fashion critics. While Olena Zelenská remains a face of moderate elegance in times of crisis, Melania Trump becomes a symbol of luxury, glamour, and thoughtful styling once again upon her return to the White House. And the differences in their demeanor are noticeable.
This is greatly aided by the fact that while Melania Trump lived alongside Donald Trump for years in luxury and, as the wife of a billionaire, could afford the most expensive pieces, Olena Zelenská was a screenwriter before becoming First Lady. And it probably never occurred to her that she would stand beside her husband during one of Ukraine's and Russia's most serious conflicts.
Olena Zelenská bets on minimalism with a message
The First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenská, is known for her understated style that never distracts from the significance of the events she attends. She often opts for subdued colors, such as gray, beige, navy blue or her favorite khaki. Olena places emphasis on the cut, structure and quality of the material. She always dons sophisticated and meticulously designed models, yet never appears ostentatious. She carries that hint of elegance that you won't find on the counter of any fashion boutique - either you are born with it or not.
Zelenska usually prefers Ukrainian designers and local brands, thus expressing support for domestic creation and culture. Her style is naturally diplomatic. Very elegant, modern, but unobtrusive. In fashion, she is not looking for extravagance, but respect and message. Especially in difficult times, which hit their country a few years ago, she tries to represent dignity, calmness and cohesion with her outfits. Even in the most serious moments, she appears as a woman who knows that even simple cut and neutral color can carry her outfit's voice - the voice of solidarity, courage and respect for her country.
Melania Trump Puts Luxury First
After Donald Trump's return to office, Melania Trump once again became the first lady, and almost nothing has changed in her style. She did not learn from mistakes, but she does not make new ones either. She remains an icon of high fashion, precisely styled outfits, and confident female expression. She loves brands like Dior, Valentino or Ralph Lauren, and is not afraid of bold cuts, colors or luxury accessories.
Unlike Zelenska, she uses fashion as a space for clear expression. Every outfit has a clear strategy. It reflects power, status, and invulnerability. And for many also a certain privilege. While Olena is diplomatic and discreet, Melania comes across as a strong figure on the chessboard of global attention. Her goal is not to blend in, but to be seen. And to be remembered. It is often apparent that she was used to a clear social ladder, where she stood at the top next to a billionaire. She does not try to be a woman of the people, but to distinguish her style from those who cannot afford a luxury product. Even in the position of the First Lady, she does not opt for subtle makeup, which is largely common for this role.
The approaches of Olena Zelenska and Melania Trump greatly differ. At first glance, perhaps not much, but it contains a clear expression. It is obvious that they have not only different personal preferences, but they also come from different political realities. The activities that await them in the position of the first lady are very different. And perhaps it would seem inappropriate for Olena, as the first lady of a country at war, to bet on ostentatious luxury at all costs. Melania doesn't have this problem and does it purposefully. It is clear that she uses fashion as a tool to present herself, not the entire country. Her domain is thus cold elegance, certain detachment and unattainability. On the other hand, Olena tries to be close to her people, who are going through hard times. As for what is actually right, we leave that to your discretion.
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Source: author's text, businessinsider.com, vogue.ua
