Ivanka Trump faces backlash for Audrey Hepburn-inspired ball gown

Ivanka Trump’s appearance at the 2025 Liberty Inaugural Ball has sparked a heated online debate, with her choice of attire at the center of attention. The ball marked the culmination of Donald Trump’s second presidential inauguration, an event that brought global scrutiny to every detail, including Ivanka’s striking gown.

Taking inspiration from Audrey Hepburn’s iconic dress in the 1954 film Sabrina, Ivanka wore a modern recreation of the timeless piece. Crafted by the French fashion house Givenchy, the white dress featured black floral embroidery, a subtle train, and paired with black opera gloves, stiletto heels, a diamond choker, and a sleek chignon hairstyle. The ensemble closely mirrored Hepburn’s original, drawing both admiration and criticism.

WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 20: Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump at the Liberty Inaugural Ball on January 20, 2025 in Washington, DC. President DonaldTrump attends some of the inaugural balls after taking the oath as the 47th president. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Some praised Ivanka for her elegance and the homage to Hepburn, applauding the choice as a nod to timeless class and sophistication. Among her supporters was Hepburn’s son, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, who acknowledged the tribute and noted the long-standing admiration for his mother’s legacy. He described it as a fitting gesture, especially given the significance of the occasion, coinciding with the anniversary of Hepburn’s passing and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

However, not everyone was as kind. Critics online questioned the execution of the gown, with some claiming it lacked the finesse of Hepburn’s original. Others took issue with the connection to Audrey Hepburn, arguing that the late actress’s values clashed with the Trump family’s politics. One particularly harsh comment stated, “Audrey Hepburn would curse them all. She didn’t survive WWII and fight against everything the Trump family represents just for her dress to be used like this.”

On the other hand, fans defended Ivanka’s choice, emphasizing her beauty and the thoughtfulness behind the homage. Many admired the dress as a bold and tasteful statement, fitting for the high-profile event.

Ivanka, alongside her husband Jared Kushner, has announced they will not be taking roles in Donald Trump’s second administration. Yet, her presence at the inauguration has once again thrust her into the spotlight, reigniting discussions about her influence and style.

What’s your take on Ivanka’s gown? Was it a respectful nod to Audrey Hepburn’s elegance or a choice that missed the mark? Share your thoughts and join the ongoing debate.