Melania Trump Wears a Dramatic Fuchsia Cocktail Dress With an Unexpected Twist at the Republican National Convention

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For the third evening of the Republican National Convention, Melania Trump pulled out all stops with a very modern cocktail ensemble. The American first lady stole the show in a vibrate fuchsia concoction.

The dress by Taiwanese-Canadian designer Jason Wu featured a full skirt that fell mid calf and a ruched waist that came cinched with a black velvet tie. In an unexpected twist, it fell to each side instead of meeting in the middle.

But while this sort of affair can often look too Shirley Temple by far, the frock in question succeeded due to its unexpected, non-traditional finish.

The elasticated waist and the fact that the tie stopped just short of a bow gave it a fresh, contemporary and age appropriate air.

The first lady accessorized with black velvet pumps by Manolo Blahnik which matched the belt. The two black accents also helped keep the look balanced and grounded. Wu and Manolo often collaborate on the former’s runway shoes so the pairing is not without precedent.

Although Trump’s frock is likely to have been custom made for her, fuchsia and black is also a key color combination for the Jason Wu Collection fall ’20.

Manolo Blahnik
Manolo Blahnik

To Buy: Manolo Blahnik BB Velvet 70, $665.

Manolo Blahnik
Manolo Blahnik

To Buy: Manolo Blahnik black suede pumps, $665.

When it comes to shoes, the former model is also a fan Christian Louboutin. She has pairs in various shades and patterns, often teaming looks in monochromatic style from head to toe.

Melania Trump joined President Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, and second lady Karen Pence on stage in Baltimore, Maryland.

The previous day the first lady embraced an altogether different look. She wore a military-inspired outfit with khaki blazer and matching skirt. The jacket comes from Alexander McQueen and costs $2,450.

The four-night event concludes today, Thursday with remarks from Ivanka Trump.

Ahead, shop stylish, more affordable takes on black heels inspired by Melania Trump’s shoe pick.

black pumps, suede, heels, sam edelman
black pumps, suede, heels, sam edelman

To Buy: Sam Edelman Hazel Pumps, $121 (was $130).

black pumps, suede, heels, steve madden
black pumps, suede, heels, steve madden

To Buy: Steve Madden Daisie Pumps, $67 (was $89).

black pumps, suede, heels, marc fisher
black pumps, suede, heels, marc fisher

To Buy: Marc Fisher Dapple Pumps, $30.

Click through the gallery to see more times Melania Trump went for bold footwear.

Launch Gallery: 32 Times Melania Trump Wore Statement-Making Pumps

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