Lippes, who was contacted by Melania’s stylist Hervé Pierre in November, did not hesitate to take the opportunity. “Of course, without hesitation, I said yes,” he recalled of the phone call just before his Japan vacation
Adam Lippes, the designer behind Melania Trump’s stylish inauguration look, admitted he was “a bit worried” about potential backlash for dressing the First Lady, given the divisive nature of her husband, Donald Trump’s presidency. Melania wore a tailored navy wool coat, pencil skirt, and ivory silk blouse by Lippes, paired with an Eric Javitz hat for the event earlier this month.
Despite initial concerns, Lippes was relieved by the overwhelmingly positive response to his brand, particularly from customers and even those outside the political sphere. “She really represented what a First Lady should look like,” he told WWD.
The designer’s social media following surged, and his online sales saw record numbers, marking the best week in his brand’s history. Physical stores also experienced a significant boost in traffic. “There have been a lot of new customers and people placing orders, which has been great,” Lippes shared.
While he faced some negative comments, Lippes chose not to engage. “I didn’t engage with the angry people. When I dressed Dr. Biden, I also received hateful messages,” he said.
Lippes, who was contacted by Melania’s stylist Hervé Pierre in November, did not hesitate to take the opportunity. “Of course, without hesitation, I said yes,” he recalled of the phone call just before his Japan vacation.
His brand’s success following the inauguration reflects the powerful intersection of fashion and politics, where independent designers like Lippes are continuing to carve out a space in high-profile events.
