Say what you will about Melania Trump's speech last night at the Republican National Convention (and trust me, people are saying a lot), there is one thing we can all agree on: Whether she wrote the speech or not, she looked prettttttyyy chic delivering it. Wondering who designed Melania Trump's RNC dress? The story behind it, which The New York Times thoughtfully pointed out, is actually pretty interesting.
Historically, potential First Ladies have have chosen to wear pieces by American or famous designers to give their speeches at the convention. Michelle Obama wore a dress by Maria Pinto, a Chicago-based designer, in 2008, and Ann Romney and Cindy McCain both wore Oscar de La Renta during their husbands' conventions. The event is meant to be the Presidential hopeful's spouse's introduction to the American people, and wearing a well-known American designer has traditionally been a way to show solidarity with the nation.
Mrs. Trump, who herself wasn't born in the US, made a different but equally important fashion choice for her debut evening: The white, billow-sleeved dress she wore for her speech was made by London-based designer Roksanda Ilincic.
Ilincic was born in Serbia, which, like Mrs. Trump's hometown of Slovenia, was once a part of Yugoslavia. Ilincic moved to London and found success as a designer, a background that parallels Trump's own of moving to America and becoming a model.
Mrs. Trump's speech drew on her background as an immigrant, so it made sense for her to choose to wear a dress from a designer whose story is so similar to her own.
Roksanda Margo Cotton and Silk Blend Dress, $2,190, Net-a-Porter.com
The original dress is sadly sold out online, but here are three alternative options
1. Free People
Ivory Farrah Dress, $188, Freepeople.com
The white version of this dress is uber-chic, but it also comes in black, red and yellow, so you can actually make use out of it at summer weddings.
2. PinkBlush
White Chiffon Plus-Sized Bell Sleeve Dress, $55, PinkBlush.com
This Boho-version of the white, bell-sleeved dress is perfect for a day-to-night transitional look.
3. Nasty Gal
Nasty Gal Bell From Heaven Mini Dress in White, $46.40, NastGal.com
Want to wear Melania Trump's convention speech dress on your next night out? This Nasty Gal mini-version is the one for you.
Images: Courtesy of Brands
