Melania Trump's 'optical illusion' dress sparks huge online debate over unusual colour
At the state banquet at Windsor Castle last night, President Trump was welcomed to the UK by the King and Queen - but the internet's attention has been on Melania Trump's divisive gown
As President Trump and the First Lady attended the state banquet hosted for them by the King, all eyes were on Melania’s dress.
She opted for a canary yellow off-the-shoulder dress from Caroline Herrera, which she paired with nude pumps and a pair of emerald earrings. However, it was Melania's choice of belt that has caused an internet meltdown, as people are divided on whether it was pink or purple.
In some photographs from the event, the belt appears to be a baby pink or an almost nude colour. But in others it comes across as a bold lilac - and no one can decide which is correct.
One user wrote on X: “Not to go all 2015 and start a dress drama, but is Melania's belt pink or purple?” Another said: “Still trying to figure out the intention behind making this piece a 'scandalous' type of illusion.
Is it a test to see who will try and falsely claim Melania had her abdomen showing at this event when in reality it’s a taupe/pink coloured belt? I have so many questions.”
Some people were certain that the belt was not purple, with one claiming that the belt was pink for cancer awareness. Someone else insisted it was purple, writing: “When green, gold, and purple are combined, they symbolize a powerful spiritual message of prosperity, divine authority, and royal blessings.”
Others saw both colours as one person said: “When I saw it during the live coverage it did not look pink. Now that I see this I love it!”
The dress's off-the-shoulder look and bold colour received criticism online. Marian Kwei, a celebrity stylist, told the BBC that the dress was "not the expected colour" to see at a state banquet. She added: "Although it perhaps is in keeping with state dress protocol, the strapless gown is a little on the daring side."
Meanwhile, Queen Camilla wore a cobalt blue Fiona Clare gown which she paired with a sapphire tiara. The tiara had been commissioned back in 1963 by Queen Elizabeth II to go with a sapphire necklace given to her by her father.
It was made from an antique sapphire and diamond necklace, and Camilla first wore it for her first ever state banquet as queen consort back in 2022.
The Princess of Wales opted for a cream lace couture down by Phillipa Lepley and a pearl tiara. Kate's tiara also comes with a fascinating backstory as it was a favourite of Princess Diana and was lent to her for her wedding to Charles in 1981.