Melania Trump's Late Mother Might Have Been Her Biggest First Lady Fashion Influence

Melania Trump is currently mourning the loss of her mother, Amalija Knavs, 72, after an undisclosed illness, but her imprint on the former first lady’s life is something that isn’t often discussed. Melania’s wardrobe in the White House was highly influenced by her mom, who had a very distinct taste in fashion.

During her time in Washington, D.C., Melania was well known for her couture outfits, often favoring brands like Chanel, Manolo Blahnik, Dior, and Christian Louboutin — we are talking high fashion. She would occasionally dive into a pop of vibrant colors for an event, but her day-to-day wardrobe was enveloped in neutrals: tan, khaki, and even blush pink. In looking back at her preferences, The New York Times noted how similarly Melania dressed like her mother.

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Amalija was often spotted in the background of her daughter’s photos, following just behind then-President Donald Trump. She would often be seen side by side with her husband, Victor Knavs, as they took a pivotal role in helping to raise their grandchild, Barron, while Donald Trump and Melania were required to be out on the campaign trail or overseas. The media outlet described the mother-daughter’s styles as “sophisticated and elegant” as well as “somewhat constricting and self-contained.” They would often dress alike in “fitted sheaths or belted dresses, solid color pantsuits, stilettoes and shades” — it was a common Melania first lady uniform.

It should come as no surprise the Amalija guided Melania’s chosen style because she was a talented seamstress in her native Yugoslavia. Melania credited her mother at the 2016 Republican National Convention for helping shape her life. “My elegant and hardworking mother Amalija introduced me to fashion and beauty,” she said. “My father, Viktor, instilled in me a passion for business and travel. Their integrity, compassion and intelligence reflect to this day on me and for my love of family and America.”

While Melania didn’t always hit a homerun with her fashion — the “I Really Don’t Care Do U?” jacket comes to mind — but she learned how to make a statement with her style. Donald Trump is promising that Melania will be making appearances during his 2024 campaign, so her messages in a tumultuous election year could hold the key to how she’s really feeling about another run for the White House. Keep an eye on the former first lady’s wardrobe.

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