Ivanka Trump’s dazzling appearance at the 2025 Liberty Inaugural Ball has ignited an intense online debate, with her bold fashion choice stealing headlines and dividing public opinion. As Donald Trump officially returned to the Oval Office for his second term, all eyes were on Ivanka, who channeled the legendary Audrey Hepburn in an outfit that sparked both awe and outrage.
Paying homage to the timeless style of one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures, Ivanka wore a breathtaking recreation of the gown Audrey Hepburn famously donned in the 1954 classic Sabrina. Designed by the prestigious French fashion house Givenchy, the gown featured elegant white silk with intricate black floral embroidery and a flowing train. To complete the look, Ivanka paired the dress with elbow-length black opera gloves, a dazzling diamond choker, and a sleek chignon hairstyle, leaving no detail overlooked. Her choice was unmistakably bold, drawing a clear parallel to Hepburn’s unmatched grace.
But in true Trump-era fashion, the internet exploded with controversy. While supporters hailed Ivanka’s tribute as a masterclass in sophistication and elegance, detractors wasted no time unleashing harsh critiques. “The embroidery on Ivanka’s dress looks cheap compared to the original. Hepburn is untouchable!” one user commented. Others were even harsher, calling it a disgrace to Hepburn’s legacy. “Audrey Hepburn survived World War II and stood for everything the Trump family opposes. To see her iconic dress used like this is beyond disrespectful,” another fumed.
The criticism didn’t stop there. Social media was awash with fiery takes, with one user claiming, “Audrey would have hated Ivanka and everything her family represents!” Yet, Ivanka’s admirers were equally vocal, praising her courage and grace under scrutiny. “She looked stunning—pure class, just like Audrey. The haters can keep talking, but Ivanka nailed it,” one supporter posted.
Amid the heated debate, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, Audrey Hepburn’s own son, weighed in to provide a surprising twist. Ferrer applauded Ivanka’s tribute, calling it a reflection of his mother’s enduring legacy. “It’s no wonder Ivanka drew inspiration from Audrey for such an occasion,” Ferrer told the Daily Mail. “It’s a beautiful nod to elegance, especially on such a significant day—Inauguration Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and the anniversary of my mother’s passing. What a cocktail of history and tribute.”
Despite the controversy, Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner have made it clear that they will not return to White House roles during Donald Trump’s second term. However, her fashion choice at the Liberty Ball has ensured that her presence will remain a hot topic of discussion long after the event.
What do you think of Ivanka’s daring tribute to Audrey Hepburn? A bold homage to timeless elegance or a misstep in judgment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
