Melania Trump’s Wedding Dress: A Timeless Icon of Elegance and Luxury
Melania Trump’s Iconic Wedding Gown
Melania Knauss married Donald Trump on January 22, 2005, in a lavish ceremony filled with luxury. The highlight was her wedding dress, designed by John Galliano, then creative director of Christian Dior. The strapless ivory satin gown featured “a 16-foot veil and a 13-foot train,” and was decorated with “1,500 hand-stitched pearls and crystal rhinestones.” It took over 550 hours to make and weighed about 60 pounds, making it one of the most talked-about wedding dresses of its time.
A Star-Studded Celebration
The wedding took place at the Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea in Palm Beach, Florida, followed by a reception at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. The guest list included celebrities and political figures like Heidi Klum, Shaquille O’Neal, Katie Couric, former President Bill Clinton, and then-Senator Hillary Clinton. This mix of high society and politics reflected the couple’s prominent status.
Lasting Fascination with the Dress
Years later, Melania’s gown continues to captivate people. Reports say it was listed on eBay in 2025 for $45,000, with the seller claiming to have altered it by adding “straps and additional embroidery.” Although the listing’s authenticity was debated, it “rekindled interest in the famous dress and its significance in fashion history.”
A Symbol of Elegance and Influence
Melania’s wedding dress symbolized her blend of “classic elegance and contemporary flair.” It helped shape her public image during her time as First Lady and represents the intersection of fashion, politics, and celebrity culture. The gown remains “one of the most iconic bridal gowns in recent memory,” reflecting both Melania’s style and the grandeur of the Trump name.
