Vogue magazine finds itself embroiled in controversy after criticizing the latest White House portrait of the first lady, prompting a fervent defense from Bettina Anderson, the new girlfriend of Donald Trump Jr.
Anderson took to social media to voice her support for Mrs. Trump, condemning the magazine's commentary and urging kindness in public discourse, as the Daily Mail reports.
Melania Trump's new White House portrait, unveiled on Jan. 27, has sparked discussions across the media landscape. Her outfit choice, a black Dolce & Gabbana pantsuit paired with a white shirt, was styled by Hervé Pierre. Captured by Régine Mahaux, the portrait captures the first lady in a commanding pose with the Washington Monument as a backdrop.
However, not all receptions were favorable. The Vogue critique, penned by Hannah Jackson, was particularly scathing. Jackson's piece drew parallels between Melania's wardrobe choice and a "freelance magician," suggesting the attire was more befitting a guest appearance on The Apprentice than a representation of a proper first lady.
This isn't the first time Vogue has faced scrutiny for its portrayal of political figures. The magazine, often associated with editor-in-chief Anna Wintour's Democratic Party affiliations, was previously rumored to have positioned Wintour for an ambassadorship under former President Barack Obama.
Against this backdrop, Bettina Anderson's defense of Melania sought to challenge the harshness of the Vogue review. Posting on her Instagram, Anderson urged kindness and called out the magazine, saying the publication had "gone off the rails" and stirring further political debate. "Peace out @voguemagazine," she began. "In a world where you can be anything -- BE KIND."
The defense echoed concerns previously expressed by some loyalists to Donald Trump Jr. about Anderson's influence on the family. Although both her and Trump Jr.'s relationship was spotlighted in September 2024, it is her close ties to the Trumps pf which critics are wary.
Bettina has been a visible presence at significant family events, including attending the presidential inauguration on Jan. 20. Despite her attendance and the attention, Anderson did not sit alongside Donald Trump Jr., but was seen in a Dolce & Gabbana suit, underscoring her own choice of fashion statements.
Reports state that friends of Don Jr. have expressed unease regarding Anderson's past reputation as a "notorious party girl" in Palm Beach. While these concerns have not overshadowed her relationship with the family, some figures close to Don Jr. claim her connections may stem from more self-serving ambitions.
Media reactions like Anderson's often overshadow the subtler nuances of public discourse. Her support for Melania Trump reflects broader questions about the intersection of media, politics, and personal relationships within political circles.
Hannah Jackson's article in Vogue did not shy away from delving into Melania's past, suggesting her attire reflected the "theatrical" associations from her lifestyle in a "gold-encrusted penthouse." Though divisive, this commentary highlights the ongoing conversation about expectations of public figures in the White House.
As of now, the Trump family appears to stand unified. Sources associated with the family insist that Bettina is "adored" by Donald Trump Jr.'s family, mitigating further rumors about her motivations and proposed influence.
While the controversy may draw attention to Melania's portrait for some time to come, it also serves to underline the roles relationships play in shaping public narratives and the power they wield in challenging influential media outlets like Vogue.
