This shift extended beyond the state dinner. During an earlier White House visit, Melania wore a custom butter-yellow suit by American designer Adam Lippes, while Camilla chose a white chiffon dress by British designer Anna Valentine—each highlighting designers from their respective countries.
Together, these choices suggested a move toward personal expression in diplomatic fashion, adding another layer of interest to an already closely watched visit.
Rising Tensions Beyond Fashion
Melania’s appearance alongside the British royals came amid growing public tension involving late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.
In a statement, Melania criticized him directly: “Kimmel’s hateful and violent rhetoric is intended to divide our country. His monologue about my family isn’t comedy- his words are corrosive and deepens the political sickness within America.”
She continued, “People like Kimmel shouldn’t have the opportunity to enter our homes each evening to spread hate. A coward, Kimmel hides behind ABC because he knows the network will keep running cover to protect him.”
She concluded with a call for action: “Enough is enough. It is time for ABC to take a stand. How many times will ABC’s leadership enable Jimmy’s atrocious behavior at the expense of our community.”
Donald Trump Weighs In
Donald Trump also voiced his anger, writing that Jimmy “should be immediately fired by Disney and ABC,” calling the remarks “really shocking.”
“Wow, Jimmy Kimmel, who is in no way funny, as attested to by his terrible Television Ratings, made a statement on his Show that is really shocking […] Jimmy Kimmel should be immediately fired by Disney and ABC. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP.”
He went further, linking the controversy to a recent security incident: “A day later a lunatic tried entering the ballroom of the White House Correspondents Dinner, loaded up with a shotgun, handgun, and many knives,” calling the situation “far beyond the pale.”
Kimmel Responds
Kimmel addressed the backlash during his show, rejecting claims that his joke encouraged violence.
