Ivanka Trump’s Audrey Hepburn-Inspired Gown Sparks Heated Debate
Ivanka Trump turned heads at the 2025 Liberty Inaugural Ball, but her striking choice of attire has ignited a firestorm of opinions online.
The ball, celebrating Donald Trump’s second presidential inauguration, drew global attention, and Ivanka’s gown was no exception. Inspired by Audrey Hepburn’s iconic dress from the 1954 film Sabrina, the ensemble brought timeless elegance to the high-profile event.
Designed by the French fashion house Givenchy, the white gown featured intricate black floral embroidery, a subtle train, and was paired with black opera gloves, sleek stiletto heels, a diamond choker, and a sophisticated chignon hairstyle.
The homage to Hepburn’s classic look received mixed reactions, with some lauding Ivanka for her grace and the thoughtfulness of her tribute.
One notable supporter was Sean Hepburn Ferrer, Audrey Hepburn’s son, who expressed his appreciation for the gesture.
He noted that the tribute came on a particularly meaningful day, coinciding with both Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the anniversary of his mother’s passing. Ferrer viewed the recreation as a respectful nod to Hepburn’s enduring legacy of elegance and grace.
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
However, not everyone shared Ferrer’s sentiment. Critics online were quick to dissect the gown, with some claiming it fell short of the refinement of Hepburn’s original design.
Others questioned the appropriateness of the homage, arguing that Audrey Hepburn’s values and humanitarian efforts stood in stark contrast to the Trump family’s politics. One particularly scathing comment stated, “Audrey Hepburn didn’t survive WWII and dedicate her life to humanitarian causes just to have her iconic dress linked to this administration.”
Despite the backlash, many fans rallied in support of Ivanka’s bold fashion choice, commending her for embracing a classic and tasteful look.
They pointed to the gown as a fitting statement for such a high-profile event, emphasizing her beauty and the intention behind the tribute.
Although Ivanka has announced she and her husband Jared Kushner will not hold roles in Donald Trump’s second administration, her presence at the inauguration has once again thrust her into the public eye.
The gown, with its connection to one of Hollywood’s most beloved icons, has reignited conversations about Ivanka’s influence, style, and place in the spotlight.
What’s your take on Ivanka Trump’s Audrey Hepburn-inspired gown? Was it a respectful tribute to timeless elegance, or a controversial choice that missed the mark?
Share your thoughts and join the ongoing conversation!