On January 27, 2025, the White House unveiled Melania Trump’s new official portrait, photographed by Belgian photographer Régine Mahaux on January 21 in the Yellow Oval Room. The image is styled in black and white—a significant departure from her earlier color portrait. She stands confidently behind a reflective table, wearing a sharply tailored dark suit, her hands placed on the tabletop, and the Washington Monument visible through a window behind her.

The portrait signals a shift in tone from her 2017 depiction. Then, she appeared in a softer, more traditional pose with color imagery and a welcoming expression. Now, the new image leans into a more formal and assertive aesthetic—the suit, monochrome palette, and strong posture all conveying power and seriousness. Observers note that the background and styling underline themes of authority and quiet strength rather than the “soft power” first ladies have traditionally projected.

Public reaction has been varied. Some critics argue her expression feels stern, even severe, while supporters praise the image’s elegance, clarity, and modern polish. Social‑media commentary ranged from admiration of the elevated fashion statements to comparisons with TV‑boardroom imagery and political drama. Many highlighted the decision to shoot in black and white as a bold move, adding a timeless or even symbolic quality to the picture.

Ultimately, the portrait encapsulates Melania Trump’s evolving public role. It reflects her continued focus on image, fashion, and messaging—while signaling a more visible and assertive presence in the national arena. Even as she stays largely out of the front lines of politics, her styling and presentation suggest a figure who is comfortable blending glamour, power, and public service into one carefully curated image.