Melania Trump's purple hat seen as nod to Queen Elizabeth II during UK state visit
First Lady's Dior headpiece sparks discussion of royal symbolism as purple lights illuminate landmarks and observers weigh potential messages
Melania Trump wore a large purple hat by Dior on the first day of a UK state visit with President Donald Trump, a choice that observers described as a subtle nod to Queen Elizabeth II, who died in 2022 at age 96.
The color purple has long been associated with royalty and power, and the choice did not go unnoticed on social media. Fans of the royals highlighted the hue's symbolism, with several posts noting the purple hat as a potential tribute to the late queen. Officials and onlookers alike recalled how purple features in royal symbolism, including the lighting of landmarks in recent years to honor the queen. After the queen's death in 2022, the Empire State Building in New York lit purple in tribute, and London’s Tower Bridge stayed lit in purple for about 11 days during the queen's state funeral. In the months leading up to her death, purple and platinum were the colors used for the queen's Platinum Jubilee; Australia marked the start of celebrations with purple-lit landmarks such as the High Court of Australia and the National Library of Australia.
On social media, observers pointed to the hat and, in some cases, the purple tie Trump wore on the same day, noting the color pairing as a possible deliberate message. Others argued the statement could be more subtle, or simply a fashion choice. A range of reactions appeared online, from praise of a regal appearance to speculation about a broader political signal.
Body language expert Judi James told Daily Mail that the oversized hat choice signals a desire to hide, suggesting a deliberate aura of mystery or guarded confidence on the royal visit. The accessory prompted discussion about Melania's role and presentation as she accompanies the president on the trip.
The couple are on the first day of their UK state visit, a high-profile turn in their international schedule that has drawn attention to how both wear symbolism and gestures on the world stage. There was no official comment on the couple's wardrobe from the White House as the visit proceeds, but the purple hat quickly became a talking point among observers.
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