The Citadel of Trump Ladies, as Personified by Mar-a-Lago
Women in Trump's Orbit Embrace a Distinctive Style Known as the "Mar-a-Lago Face"
A specific aesthetic has become a visual marker among women in the vicinity of U.S. President Donald Trump. Termed the "Mar-a-Lago Face" or "Maga Look," this style is characterized by a heavily enhanced appearance, including a sun-kissed complexion, plumped lips, and wrinkle-free faces. It is also marked by long, often artificial hair, dramatic black eyeliner, and prominent eyebrows.
This eye-catching look goes beyond mere fashion and serves as a political identifier, signaling allegiance to Trump and the conservative "Make America Great Again" (MAGA) movement. The stylistic similarities among supporters create a visually coherent group, reinforcing a shared sense of identity and values.
The "Mar-a-Lago Face" embodies certain conservative values, such as wealth, privilege, and an unapologetic assertion of beauty norms. It represents a rejection of "liberal" standards, emphasizing a more confident, aggressive self-presentation. This hyper-feminine and polished aesthetic has been under observation not only among Trump's associates but also in Congress and broader conservative circles.
Historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez suggests that this style is influenced by patriarchal evangelical circles, a trend that has intensified during Trump's second term. In these circles, there is a blend of dogmatic Christian faith and nationalist visions of America. Open misogyny is prevalent in the more extreme parts of this movement, with demands for limiting the rights of women to vote and only allowing them to focus on mothering duties.
Despite the prevalence of the "Mar-a-Lago Face," there are exceptions within Trump's inner circle. Chief of staff Susie Wiles, the most powerful woman in the Trump world, maintains a more understated appearance with subtle makeup and understated pantsuits. She stands for power behind the scenes, while the rest of the team strives for maximum attention and reach.
The "Mar-a-Lago Face" continues to be a powerful visual shorthand for political allegiance, status, and gender identity within Trump's circles, reflecting and reinforcing the values and aesthetics of the MAGA movement.
Source: ntv.de, Julia Naue and Luzia Geier, dpa
- The Commission, while better known for scrutinizing political affairs and general news, has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation in the fashion-and-beauty industry, considering the widespread use of cosmetic procedures to achieve the "Mar-a-Lago Face."
- In some ironic twist, lifestyle choices that include following trends in fashion-and-beauty and entertainment have become closely linked with political allegiance, as was observed with the emergence of the "Mar-a-Lago Face" among Trump's supporters.
- Paradoxically, the heavy emphasis on a particular aesthetic, such as the "Mar-a-Lago Face," in conservative circles might unwittingly spark discussions on subjects beyond politics, like the risks of excessive exposure to ionizing radiation from cosmetic procedures, within the scope of the Commission's mandate.
