Ivanka Trump’s Dress Sparks Debate at 2025 Liberty Inaugural Ball
On Monday evening, Ivanka Trump became the center of attention at the 2025 Liberty Inaugural Ball in Washington, D.C., where she attended with her family to celebrate the beginning of her father Donald Trump’s second term as President of the United States.
As expected, the inauguration, an event that is always under the public’s watchful eye, was filled with memorable moments. From debates about Melania Trump’s hat to speculation over Barron Trump’s whispered conversation with Joe Biden, the entire day was filled with drama and attention.
But amidst all of this, it wasn’t just political actions that grabbed the spotlight. Ivanka Trump’s dress became a topic of fierce debate online. What was supposed to be a stylish homage to a Hollywood icon turned into a controversial fashion moment.
Ivanka’s Homage to Audrey Hepburn
The dress that stirred so much attention was Ivanka’s modern take on Audrey Hepburn’s iconic gown from the 1954 film Sabrina. Hepburn’s dress, designed by Hubert de Givenchy, remains a classic symbol of elegance and grace. Ivanka’s version, designed by Givenchy, paid tribute to this timeless beauty with a few modern twists.
The dress was made of white fabric with black floral embroidery, and it had a subtle train. Ivanka completed the look with black opera gloves, stiletto heels, and a diamond choker, finishing it off with a classic chignon hairstyle—an homage to Hepburn’s signature elegance.
While Ivanka looked stunning and poised, her outfit sparked mixed reactions. Some people admired her elegance, praising the dress as a beautiful tribute to a Hollywood legend. Others, however, were quick to criticize the choice, claiming it didn’t do justice to the original dress or the legacy of Audrey Hepburn.
The Criticism Begins
One particularly sharp critic wrote, “The more I examine the details, the more ridiculous this dress looks.” Another commenter shared their thoughts, saying, “The texture and embroidery on Ivanka’s version appear cartoonish and lack the sophistication of the original. Audrey Hepburn is in a league of her own.”
Some critiques went beyond just the design of the dress itself. There were even questions raised about the association between Hepburn and the Trump family. One person argued, “Audrey Hepburn would have despised everything the Trump family stands for.
She survived World War II and fought against everything they represent. It’s disgraceful that her iconic dress was used like this.” Another added, “Audrey would never have approved of Ivanka or her family.”
Support for Ivanka
Despite the backlash, there were many who praised Ivanka for the dress and the sentiment behind it. Supporters believed that Ivanka’s gown was a beautiful homage to Hepburn’s classic style. They saw no reason for the criticism, arguing that Ivanka had captured the elegance of the Hollywood legend without overshadowing her.
One supporter even stated, “Ivanka looks stunning in this dress. It’s a nod to a true icon. Let’s appreciate the beauty of the moment, not tear it apart.”
A Thoughtful Response from Audrey Hepburn’s Son
The debate around Ivanka’s dress took an interesting turn when Audrey Hepburn’s son, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, weighed in on the matter. Ferrer, who is known for honoring his mother’s legacy, expressed a more understanding viewpoint regarding Ivanka’s tribute.
He told The Daily Mail, “It’s no wonder that Ivanka, coming from a family that undoubtedly knew my mother as a household name, sought inspiration from her. Audrey was the epitome of elegance and class, and this occasion—the inauguration, the 32nd anniversary of my mother’s passing, and Martin Luther King Jr. Day—was a perfect moment to honor that.”
Ferrer’s comments added a new layer to the conversation, reminding people that respectful tributes to cultural icons can come from anyone, regardless of their background or family history. His kind words also highlighted the deep connection between Audrey Hepburn’s legacy and Ivanka Trump’s admiration for her style.
Ivanka’s Stance and Family’s Future
It appears that Ivanka Trump is wearing Givenchy tonight. This is a recreation of the iconic 1954 Haute Couture black and white gown that was originally designed for Audrey Hepburn, for the movie Sabrina pic.twitter.com/lUPONCkKCk
— Remoulade Sauce (@Remisagoodboy) January 21, 2025
While the fashion controversy was playing out online, Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner, have made it clear that they don’t plan to return to any official roles within the White House during Donald Trump’s second term. Ivanka, a former senior advisor to her father during his first presidency, seems to have stepped back from politics.
In a way, her appearance at the Liberty Ball symbolized a return to her roots as a businesswoman and public figure, outside of the intense political spotlight. Despite the fashion critique, she appeared confident, poised, and focused on supporting her father’s presidency from a more personal angle.
Your Thoughts on Ivanka’s Dress
The conversation surrounding Ivanka Trump’s dress has sparked heated discussions, but the fact remains that her choice to pay homage to an iconic figure has made her the subject of a larger debate. Whether you love the dress or not, it’s clear that Ivanka made a statement, one way or another.
So, what do you think? Was Ivanka’s dress a beautiful tribute to Audrey Hepburn, or did it miss the mark? Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments below!
