During the Liberty Ball celebrating her father's inauguration, Ivanka Trump stirred emotions by donning a gown reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn's classic look from the 1954 movie "Sabrina." This tribute, intended as homage, instead ignited mixed reactions across social and media spectrums.
According to Daily Mail, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, Audrey's son, later commented on the gesture, revealing layered connections between the Trumps and Hepburn, though he suggested ideological differences in their respective values.
Ivanka's choice of attire, a black-and-white strapless gown adorned with floral motifs, was similar yet distinctively styled from Hepburn's original outfit designed by Hubert de Givenchy. Unlike Hepburn, who paired the dress with minimal jewelry and long white gloves, Ivanka opted for modern accessories, putting a contemporary twist on the vintage style.
The 43-year-old businesswoman and former presidential advisor shared a romantic dance with her husband, Jared Kushner, at the event. Simultaneously, it marked a significant attempt to connect her inspirations with a pivotal public appearance.
The Hepburn and Trump families have intersected on several occasions. Notably, Donald Trump and Ivanka’s stepmother, Marla Ann Maples, supported the Audrey Hepburn Children's Fund in the early 1990s. This involvement included themed events such as "Breakfast with Tiffany," celebrating Ivanka's stepsister Tiffany Trump.
Moreover, Ivanka’s mother, Ivana Trump, had a romantic link with Alfredo Gaetani, a family friend of the Hepburns, which perhaps further solidified the bond or familiarity between the Trump and Hepburn families over the years. These historical layers add complexity to Ivanka's choice of fashion at the inauguration ball.
Despite these connections, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, aged 64, acknowledged that the tribute by Ivanka was anticipated but fraught with nuanced implications, considering his mother's historical and ideological leanings.
Responding to the backlash from fans of Audrey Hepburn, Sean's statement to DailyMail.com illustrated a tense juxtaposition between his mother's legacy and the political symbolism interpreted by some observers. He remarked, "It is no wonder that growing up in a family which knew our mother as a household name she chose to draw inspiration from her, to seek the ultimate elegance and class reference, for an occasion such as this one - the inauguration and the 32nd anniversary of our mother's passing and, most of all, Martin Luther King's day."
Critics on platforms like Reddit expressed dissatisfaction, viewing the tribute as contradictory to Audrey Hepburn's values. For instance, one pointed out that Audrey, a resistance fighter during World War II, represented ideals seemingly antithetical to those perceived by the current political leadership.
Sean emphasized his mother's dedication to humanitarian causes, particularly her work with UNICEF and her focus on aiding disenfranchised children irrespective of political contexts.
Audrey Hepburn, who passed away from abdominal cancer in January 1993, has been a symbol of grace and philanthropy, her cinematic works are overshadowed only by her commitment to children's welfare as a UNICEF ambassador. Her enduring impact, as noted by Sean, carries significance across generations and nations, transcending her immediate Hollywood identity.
In contrast to Ivanka's portrayal, some critics argued that Audrey Hepurn's experiences during the war fundamentally formed her views, which they believe would align more closely with progressive figures like Episcopal Bishop Marianne Budde rather than the political ideology associated with the Trump administration.
A final noteworthy aspect of Audrey Hepburn's accomplishments was her receipt of the US Presidential Medal of Freedom in December 1992, a recognition of her extensive humanitarian efforts.
The Liberty Ball's fashion tribute by Ivanka Trump to Audrey Hepburn has revealed deep historical and familial connections, contrasted by potential ideological disparities. Sean Hepburn Ferrer's reaction highlights both the personal connections and the profound differences in values and legacies. Despite the homage, the choice sparked discussions reflecting the complex interplay of celebrity, history, and politics, underscoring the lasting influence of Audrey Hepburn's life and works on future generations.