'Hasn't Anyone Looked at Melania's White Collar?': Melania Trump's Outfit at Jimmy Carter's Funeral Sparks Fan Discussion

The former first lady's striking outfit at a high-profile event drew attention from both attendees and social media users. Here's why.

Melania Trump's dress at the state funeral service for former U.S. President Jimmy Carter on January 9, 2025, has sparked a wave of reactions online, with fans particularly focused on her unique white collar. The former first lady, attending the solemn event alongside her husband, President-elect Donald Trump, opted for a striking black Valentino coat dress that featured an oversized white collar adorned with artistic images.

The funeral service was held at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., with numerous dignitaries in attendance, including former presidents, first ladies, and global leaders. Melania's attire stood out among the otherwise traditional mourning outfits, prompting social media users to question the design and symbolism behind her fashion statement.

Photos from the event show Melania sitting quietly alongside her husband, her gaze focused on the ceremony. The black dress, paired with the bold white collar, drew attention both at the service and online.

One user on X, formerly Twitter, wrote, "Hasn't anyone looked at Melania's white collar?!?" echoing the sentiments of many who noticed the eye-catching detail. Another commenter said, "I can't make out what that is on Melania's collar, does anyone know what that image is?"

The collar appeared to feature artistic sketches, which led some to speculate about their significance. One user asked, "What picture is this on Melania's oversized collar?" Others expressed curiosity about the unusual design, with one person remarking, "I'm distracted by whatever that is on Melania's collar."

While the specific meaning of the illustrations on the collar remains unclear, many users shared their interpretations. "Melania's collar was interesting. It looked like President Kennedy hugged one of his kids from an old black and white photo," wrote one user, drawing a possible connection to historical imagery.

"Melania, sitting there quietly, making believe she was interested in the ceremony pamphlet looked oddly different. That white collar seemed extremely uncharacteristic for her taste. There also appeared to be drawings on it? Odd, I wonder what that was [sic]?" wondered another disgruntled commenter.

However, not all reactions were positive. Some questioned the outfit's appropriateness for a funeral. "Love Melania but why the Pilgrim collar?" asked one commenter, while another said, "What was on that odd white collar Melania wore? Strange choice for some one so fashion conscious [sic]."

Speculation about the images on the collar continued, with one fan suggesting it might be a tribute to the Carters' enduring love story. "The kissing lovers may be a tribute to Jimmy and his love for Rosalyn. Melania would think of something special like that. She has a beautiful soul [sic]," a user commented.

Despite the ongoing debate, some fans praised Melania's outfit for its elegance and sophistication. "I love the Valentino blouse Melania wore to Carter's funeral. It's so elegant and tasteful, and people wondering about the image on the collar need glasses," a fan wrote. "She's the epitome of understated elegance and class."

Melania's striking outfit choice continued to ignite curiosity online as more details about the ensemble emerged. Now, fashion insiders have identified the garment as a piece from Valentino's Fall/Winter 2019 Ready-to-Wear Women's Collection, adding another layer of intrigue to the discussion.

The unique collar was part of Valentino's collaboration with Japanese designer Jun Takahashi of Undercover. The creative partnership infused Renaissance art with contemporary elements, resulting in a blend of historical and modern aesthetics.

According to Valentino's website, the design featured a 19th-century neoclassical sculpture of kissing lovers combined with bold rose imagery. The artistic prints appeared on various garments, including coats, dresses, and blouses, during the collection's runway show in March 2019.

This particular print, as noted by L'Officiel, was part of a larger theme explored by Valentino's creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli. The collection drew inspiration from Renaissance-era romance, religion, and Victorian sensibilities, pushing boundaries with daring graphic prints of embracing statues and vibrant floral patterns.

These prints were described as "pop-punkish" in their execution, combining traditional art with edgy contemporary style.

The Valentino × Undercover collaboration was not a one-off venture. It had begun earlier that year, with the two brands working together for Paris Men's Fashion Week in January 2019. The unexpected combination of Valentino's classic elegance with Undercover's edgy, street-style influences created a unique aesthetic that stood out on runways.

Melania's coat dress from this collection drew attention not only for its bold artistic elements but also for its historical references. For fashion enthusiasts familiar with Valentino's work, the look was instantly recognizable.

The dress was part of Valentino's effort to push the boundaries of traditional high fashion. L'Officiel highlighted the prevalence of graphic prints in the collection, describing them as bold statements that merged historical references with modern interpretations of art. Pieces from the collaboration, including the "Lovers" print dress, are still available today, with some retailers offering discounted prices.

Whether intentional or coincidental, the Valentino design has certainly left an impression on both fashion enthusiasts and casual observers alike, ensuring that Melania's look at the funeral will be remembered for its elegance — and its mystery.

The attention surrounding Melania Trump's dress wasn't the only buzzworthy moment from the somber event. In a rare and poignant gathering, all five living U.S. presidents — Joe Biden, Donald Trump, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton — came together to honor Jimmy Carter at his state funeral. The images sparked disbelief among netizens, who questioned whether the scene was real.

Vice President Kamala Harris and former vice presidents Mike Pence, Dick Cheney, and Al Gore joined the presidents at the service. Held at the Washington National Cathedral, the ceremony honored Carter's lifelong commitment to service as the 39th president and a devoted humanitarian.

The program featured tributes, musical performances, and eulogies. Biden delivered a heartfelt tribute, focusing on Carter's enduring "character," which he described as the foundation of the late president's legacy. He stressed the importance of treating everyone with dignity and respect.

Biden added, "We have an obligation to give hate no safe harbor." He also highlighted Carter's commitment to standing against "abuse in power" and his belief in the nation's potential.

"The very journey of our nation is a walk of sheer faith, to do the work, to be the country we say we are, to be the country we say we want to be," Biden said, reflecting on Carter's vision. "Today many think he was from a bygone era, but in reality he saw well into the future."

Biden concluded his eulogy, "I miss him, but I take solace in knowing that he and Rosalynn are reunited again. To the entire Carter family, thank you — and I mean this sincerely — for sharing them both with America and the world. We love you all."

The reunion of past and current U.S. presidents at Carter's funeral sparked varied online reactions. Some noted an air of discomfort.

"Is this photo shopped [sic]?" one user asked, seemingly struck by the surreal image of the five presidents together. "This picture is honestly so sad," another noted.

For some users, the rare gathering was symbolic. "An incredible, Historic, momentary view of past and present power making a personal accounting of what Jimmy Carter was for Humanity that they also are, were ...and would never be [sic]," wrote one commenter.

Others noted the significance of witnessing such an event, "We were eyewitnesses to history on so many levels today." Another highlighted the event's gravity and Carter's enduring impact. One user called it a "reminder of how rare and important this gathering is in American political history."

The heartfelt eulogies were also received with praise, with one person describing them as "awesome and heartfelt." Another reflected on Carter's life as "a testament to a life well lived" and expressed gratitude for his contributions.

Carter's legacy as a humanitarian resonated deeply. One supporter emphasized his example of grace and compassion and added hope that others might follow in his footsteps.

After the state funeral, Carter returned to Georgia for the final time on Thursday. He will be laid to rest in his beloved hometown of Plains, next to his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter, who died in November 2023. The interment ceremony at their family home will be private.