Ivanka Trump faces backlash for Audrey Hepburn-inspired ball gown

Ivanka Trump’s appearance at the 2025 Liberty Inaugural Ball has sparked a heated online debate, with her choice of attire at the center of attention. The ball marked the culmination of Donald Trump’s second presidential inauguration, an event that brought global scrutiny to every detail, including Ivanka’s striking gown.

Drawing inspiration from Audrey Hepburn’s iconic dress in the 1954 film Sabrina, Ivanka wore a modern recreation of the timeless piece. Crafted by the renowned French fashion house Givenchy, the white dress featured intricate black floral embroidery, a subtle train, and was paired with black opera gloves, stiletto heels, a diamond choker, and a sleek chignon hairstyle. The ensemble closely mirrored Hepburn’s original, drawing both admiration and criticism.

Among her supporters, many praised Ivanka for the elegance of her look and the tribute to Hepburn, who remains an enduring symbol of grace and sophistication. Even Sean Hepburn Ferrer, the son of Audrey Hepburn, weighed in on the fashion choice. He acknowledged the homage, noting that it was especially fitting considering the timing of the event—it coincided with the anniversary of his mother’s passing as well as Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Ferrer described Ivanka’s gown as a tribute to Hepburn’s legacy, one that underscored timeless style and cultural reverence.

However, not everyone shared the same appreciation. Critics quickly took to social media to voice their discontent, questioning the execution of the gown and its appropriateness as a homage. Some argued that the modern recreation lacked the finesse and craftsmanship of the original dress, while others took issue with the connection to Audrey Hepburn altogether. Given Hepburn’s well-documented humanitarian efforts and outspoken views against fascism, some felt that the late actress’s values clashed with those of the Trump family, especially regarding their politics.

One particularly harsh critic wrote, “Audrey Hepburn would curse them all. She didn’t survive WWII and fight against everything the Trump family represents just for her dress to be used like this.” The comment quickly garnered widespread attention, fueling the argument that the dress might have been disrespectful to the legacy of Hepburn, whose values are considered by some to be at odds with the Trump administration’s stances.

On the other hand, Ivanka’s defenders emphasized the beauty of the dress and the thoughtfulness behind it. They argued that her choice was not only a stylish nod to Hepburn but also a statement of elegance that was fitting for the high-profile event. For many, the homage was seen as an artistic gesture, celebrating classic Hollywood glamour, while others viewed it as a bold and tasteful choice that could stand on its own merits.

Ivanka, alongside her husband Jared Kushner, announced that they would not be taking any roles in Donald Trump’s second administration, signaling a shift in their political involvement. Yet, her presence at the inaugural ball once again thrust her into the spotlight, reigniting discussions about her influence and personal style. Whether people support her or not, her fashion choices have long been a source of public fascination, often sparking discussions about the intersection of politics, culture, and celebrity.

The debate surrounding Ivanka’s gown raises larger questions about the role of fashion in public life. Is it simply an aesthetic choice, or does it carry deeper meaning? In this case, Ivanka’s gown undeniably brought with it a layer of historical and political significance, intentionally or not.

Was Ivanka’s gown a respectful tribute to Audrey Hepburn’s elegance, or did it miss the mark by invoking a figure whose values were in contrast to her family’s politics? The debate continues, with opinions divided between admiration for her fashion sense and criticism of its political overtones.

As the dust settles, Ivanka’s dress will undoubtedly remain a topic of conversation. Whether you see it as an elegant homage or a politically charged misstep, the gown has certainly left its mark on the 2025 inaugural events. What do you think? Share your thoughts and join the ongoing debate.