When Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrived in Windsor on Wednesday for their UK state visit, all eyes were on the First Lady. Melania’s hat immediately drew attention—and later it became clear that it carried a subtle, hidden message.
Donald Trump is currently making his second state visit to the United Kingdom. A state visit is a formal occasion where the reigning monarch officially welcomes a visiting head of state on behalf of the government.
Trump had previously attended a state visit in June 2019, when he was invited by Queen Elizabeth II. Traditionally, presidents returning for a second term are not invited for a formal state visit; such visits are usually reserved for tea or lunch engagements.
However, King Charles chose to break with tradition. In February, the BBC reported that Trump had been invited for a second state visit—a move that surprised many and sparked debate about whether it was influenced by the transition to a new monarch, the gap between presidencies, or other factors.
Upon arriving yesterday, Donald and Melania were greeted by Prince William and Princess Kate. From the very start, the First Lady commanded attention.
The hidden meaning behind Melania Trump’s hat
At Windsor Castle, Melania’s outfit captured the spotlight. She wore a classic gray Dior suit, but it was her wide-brimmed purple hat that truly stole the scene. The hat, which partially obscured her face, recalled the memorable headpiece from Donald Trump’s inauguration that became an internet sensation during a brief awkward kiss moment.
Fashion expert Marian Kwei, a Vogue stylist, noted that the hat’s design was likely intentional. “The wide-brimmed hat that hides her face suggests she wants the focus to remain on her husband and his agenda during this visit,” Kwei told the BBC.
The color choice reinforced this message. While Donald Trump is famously associated with red ties, he opted for a purple tie to match Melania’s hat, subtly highlighting their coordinated presence.
State visit highlights
The day included several ceremonial and historic events. King Charles invited the president to review a guard of honor featuring three regiments from the Household Division—the Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards, and Scots Guards—before a parade in Windsor Castle’s Quadrangle.
The couple also visited historic sites that symbolize the longstanding ties between the United Kingdom and the United States. According to the British Royal Family, they spent part of the afternoon laying a wreath at Queen Elizabeth II’s grave. The visit concluded with a formal state banquet, where elegant attire marked the occasion.