The spotlight wasn’t just on the royal hosts during Wednesday evening’s state banquet at Windsor Castle.
Melania Trump, the First Lady of the United States, turned heads in a bold yellow, off-the-shoulder gown that instantly drew attention—both for its style and its color.
A Gown That Sparked Fashion Debate
Photos of Melania standing alongside President Donald Trump, King Charles, and Queen Camilla quickly sparked conversation online.
Observers were puzzled by the gown’s shade, which appeared bright yellow in some pictures and a softer butter-yellow in others.
Adding to the confusion was the belt: some thought it looked baby pink, while others argued it was purple.
The Insider Scoop
Thankfully, fashion insiders clarified the details. A source close to Melania told the Daily Mail that the dress, designed by Carolina Herrera, was indeed buttercream yellow and paired with an “Easter purple” belt.
Experts noted that photography—especially the use of flash—can easily alter how colors appear.
New York stylist Liz Teich explained, “Photographers often adjust saturation, contrast, and curves in their images.
Her dress may have been tweaked to look bolder than it really is.”
Teich also suggested that the cheerful yellow might have been a deliberate choice for the visit, especially given the backdrop of royal traditions and visiting protests.
Mixed Reactions From Fashion Critics
Not everyone was impressed, however. Some critics found the ensemble visually busy, noting the combination of the yellow dress, lavender belt, and emerald earrings.
Celebrity stylist Samantha Brown commented, “The styling feels distracting.
There are too many focal points, and our attention should be on the First Lady, not just the dress.”
Brown also highlighted that while butter yellow was a popular summer trend, the dress felt slightly out of season given England’s autumnal weather.
“Melania typically makes informed wardrobe choices, but this one doesn’t rank among her best looks,” she added.
A History of Bold Fashion Choices
This isn’t the first time Melania has sparked debate with daring outfits.
During the Trump administration’s first state dinner in the UK in 2018, she wore a pale yellow cape-sleeved gown by J. Mendel.
She has also caused a stir with statement hats, including a navy wide-brimmed Eric Javits design at the 2017 inauguration and a massive purple Christian Dior hat during the latest state visit.
Social media reactions were mixed, with one user writing, “Kate looks amazing.
Melania looks ridiculous,” while others defended her look, praising the vibrant yellow and dismissing any issues with photography exposure.
Carolina Herrera: A Favorite Designer
Melania has frequently chosen Carolina Herrera for official events. Earlier this year, she wore a black sequined skirt by Herrera for inauguration festivities and a white dress with colorful stripes during a 2020 state visit to India.
Trump’s UK Engagements Continue
Wednesday’s banquet was part of the Trumps’ second state visit to the UK.
Earlier in the day, President Trump shared a light-hearted moment with King Charles during the ceremonial welcome and paid respects at the tomb of Queen Elizabeth II in St. George’s Chapel.
The couple is scheduled to remain in the UK until Thursday, September 18.