In a striking sartorial misstep that has set fashion circles and royal commentators abuzz, Melania Trump chose a distinctive Burberry trench coat for her meeting with Queen Camilla during a recent trip to London with her husband, Donald Trump. The choice has been widely criticised as a significant breach of unspoken royal fashion protocol.
A Coat That Spoke Volumes
The meeting, which took place at Trump's Turnberry golf resort in Scotland, was intended to be a cordial exchange. However, all eyes were on Melania's attire—a classic, camel-hued Burberry coat featuring the brand's iconic check-lined collar and cuffs. Fashion experts were quick to point out that wearing a prominent British designer to meet a senior royal is considered a major faux pas, as it can be perceived as upstaging the host.
Understanding Royal Fashion Etiquette
Royal protocol, while often unwritten, is taken seriously in diplomatic circles. The general rule dictates that guests should avoid wearing loud patterns, bold colours, or overtly branded items from famous British designers when meeting members of the Royal Family. The goal is to show respect and avoid drawing attention away from the royals themselves.
Melania Trump, a former model known for her meticulous and often daring fashion choices, appears to have disregarded this convention. Her selection of Burberry—a global symbol of British heritage—was seen by many as a attempt to make a personal style statement that ultimately overshadowed the purpose of the visit.
Public and Media Reaction
The reaction from the British public and media was swift and largely negative. Commentators labelled the choice "tone-deaf" and a clear misstep in diplomatic etiquette. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the role of fashion in politics and international relations, and whether such rules are outdated or still relevant in the modern era.
This is not the first time Melania Trump's fashion choices have attracted controversy, but it serves as a poignant reminder that what one wears on the world stage is never just about clothing—it's a communication tool loaded with meaning.
