"A Dress Symbolizing the Journey
from Working Class to High Society"
Ivanka Trump, the eldest daughter of U.S. President Donald Trump, sparked controversy locally after wearing Audrey Hepburn's dress at the presidential inauguration ball. The criticism stems from the view that it was inappropriate for Ivanka, who comes from a wealthy family, to wear an outfit reminiscent of Hepburn's image, who dedicated her life to social contributions.
On the 20th (local time), Ivanka danced with her husband Jared Kushner at President Trump's inauguration ball held in Washington, D.C.
Ivanka appeared wearing a dress that recreated the outfit worn by actress Audrey Hepburn (1929?1993) in the 1954 film "Sabrina." This dress was custom-made by Givenchy for Hepburn. The top exposed the shoulder line, and the skirt flared widely. It was characterized by white fabric embroidered with black flowers. Ivanka also replicated Hepburn's accessories. With her hair in an updo, she wore elbow-length black gloves, stiletto heels, and a diamond necklace.
Donald Trump's eldest daughter, Ivanka Trump, wore an Audrey Hepburn dress at the presidential inauguration ball, sparking controversy. Ivanka's Instagram.
However, some criticized Ivanka's outfit as inappropriate. In "Sabrina," Hepburn's dress symbolizes the moment when the daughter of a working-class family transforms into a central figure of high society, and critics argue that Ivanka, coming from a wealthy family, would find it difficult to understand this context.
The American fashion media outlet Glamour commented, "Ivanka seemed to appeal to a traditional and conservative aesthetic while emphasizing femininity from the 1950s and 60s," adding, "Although it contrasted with the overt outfits worn by other attendees, it was an excessive obsession with the past." They further stated, "Her choice of clothing reminiscent of Hepburn's character reveals a mismatch of era and message given her affluent background."
Especially since Hepburn was a figure who worked for marginalized children worldwide, criticism among Hepburn's fans is intense. Hepburn was a member of the Dutch resistance fighting against the Nazi army during World War II and, after retiring, served as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador, engaging in human rights and charitable activities. In recognition of these contributions, she received the French Order of Arts and Letters Commander in 1987 and the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1992.
Regarding the clothing controversy, Hepburn's eldest son, Sean Hepburn Ferrer (64), stated, "It is natural to seek elegance and dignity inspired by my late mother." However, he noted that his mother's political stance differed from President Trump's, emphasizing, "My mother, a UNICEF ambassador, fought on behalf of children worldwide deprived of their rights regardless of their ideological background."
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