Ivanka Trump, known for her poised demeanor and sophisticated fashion sense, made an unforgettable appearance at the Liberty Ball in Washington, D.C.
As the ever-diplomatic First Daughter, she graced the event exuding Old Hollywood glamour—a style that sharply contrasts with anything Meghan Markle has ever managed to achieve. Ivanka didn’t simply wear a gown that evening; she brought to life a masterpiece, a custom recreation of Audrey Hepburn’s iconic 1954 couture gown from the film Sabrina.
Audrey Hepburn, the epitome of timeless grace and elegance, has been a style icon for generations. By channeling this legendary look, Ivanka made a bold fashion statement—one that many would argue indirectly overshadowed Meghan Markle’s controversial wedding dress. Meghan’s gown, worn during her high-profile marriage to Prince Harry, sparked debate worldwide. While some applauded its minimalist design, others criticized its fit and execution, with detractors calling it a lackluster effort for a royal bride.
Designed by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy, Meghan’s wedding dress was intended to exude understated luxury. However, to some critics, it appeared unfinished, as though it had been hastily put together. The comparisons to “a glorified curtain” or “a DIY project gone wrong” weren’t uncommon. Fashion enthusiasts lamented the dress’s inability to embody the sophistication expected of a royal wedding gown, especially one created by a storied couture house like Givenchy.
But Ivanka’s gown? It was a different story entirely. The 43-year-old dazzled in a strapless white creation with a billowing skirt and intricate black floral detailing that screamed elegance. Designed by Ronni, the dress was a meticulously crafted homage to Hepburn’s Sabrina gown. It wasn’t just a dress—it was a triumph. With every delicate stitch, the recreation paid tribute to the original artistry while adding a modern twist, leaving no doubt that Ivanka was a vision of refinement.
Ivanka herself acknowledged the painstaking work behind the gown, thanking the Arnaud family and the atelier for capturing the essence of the original design with remarkable precision. The result? A dress that felt like a masterclass in haute couture, effortlessly erasing the memory of Meghan Markle’s wedding misstep.
Meghan’s relationship with fashion, on the other hand, has often been a mixed bag. While she’s donned pieces from the world’s most prestigious brands, her style choices frequently divide opinion. Critics argue that even when Meghan has access to the finest couture, the end result somehow feels underwhelming or even cheap. Some have speculated that Meghan’s creative influence may hinder designers from realizing their full potential, with Clare Waight Keller’s departure from Givenchy shortly after the royal wedding adding fuel to this theory.
In contrast, Ivanka’s gown seemed like a return to the golden age of couture—a reset button, if you will. Designers like Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen have been credited with revitalizing the art of tailoring and craftsmanship, as seen in Ivanka’s stunning look. This shift away from ill-conceived experiments to true artistry is a breath of fresh air for the fashion world.
The comparison between Ivanka Trump and Meghan Markle isn’t limited to their wardrobes but extends to how they approach style as a reflection of their personas. Ivanka’s deliberate homage to Old Hollywood underscores her commitment to classic elegance, while Meghan’s attempts at modern minimalism often leave room for debate.
In the end, Ivanka’s Liberty Ball gown felt like more than just a fashion moment—it was a statement of timeless sophistication and grace. Whether or not it was intended as a subtle jab at Meghan’s infamous wedding dress, one thing is certain: Ivanka Trump continues to set a high bar for modern-day glamour.
