Melania Trump turned heads in a dramatic violet hat during the state visit to the UK, but it was her failure to curtsy to Queen Camilla and Princess Kate that sparked debate. The First Lady wore a Christian Dior Haute Couture dark gray suit with matching pumps, accessorized with a striking violet wool hat, as she and President Donald Trump arrived at Windsor Castle.
Royal historian Marlene Koenig explained that Melania was not required to curtsy, as it is not customary for Americans to bow or curtsy to the British monarch. This tradition dates back to the American Revolution and the Declaration of Independence, which asserts that all men are created equal, rejecting acts of subservience.
The Trumps are on a two-day state visit from 17 to 19 September, hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla. The couple was greeted by Prince William and Princess Kate, and later joined the royal family for a carriage ride through the Windsor estate and lunch in the state dining room.
During the visit, President Trump and Melania will lay a wreath at the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II in St George's Chapel and attend a white-tie state banquet at Windsor Castle with over 160 guests.
This is not the first time Melania has worn Dior for a public appearance. Upon arriving at Stansted Airport, she wore a sand-colored Burberry coat with a black blouse and knee-high Dior boots. Her stylist, Herve Pierre, described her look as a mix of business and femininity.
