The Distinctive "Mar-a-Lago Face" of Women in Trump's Orbit
Trump Women's Connections to Mar-a-Lago Unearthed
Women in the orbit of U.S. President Donald Trump have undergone a significant change in their appearances, a trend that The New York Times has dubbed "Trumpification." This aesthetic choice carries political implications, serving as a visual marker of identity within the pro-Trump movement.
Known for a sun-kissed complexion, plumped-up lips, wrinkle-free faces, black eyeliner, false eyelashes, prominent eyebrows, long, artificially extended, parted-in-the-middle, wavy hair, and a slim, white physique, this style has earned monikers such as the "Mar-a-Lago Face" and the "Maga Look." Notable examples include Trump's Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, daughter-in-law Lara Trump, and designate U.S. Ambassador to Greece, Kimberly Guilfoyle. All of these women have experienced notable transformations in their appearances over the years.
The "New York Times" noted that women in Trump's circle always maintain a thin and often white appearance. This look has become pattern-like, prompting media scrutiny and evaluations of the ideal femininity associated with success in Trump's politico-social milieu.
While commenting on the appearances of others may be viewed as inappropriate, the looks of women in Trump's circle extend beyond personal taste. Engaging with their visual presentations serves as a political statement, symbolizing allegiance to a set of ideals and reinforcing group solidarity within the movement.
These ideals, as historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez suggests, are closely tied to certain patriarchal evangelical circles that have gained influential presence during Trump's second term. This movement combines dogmatic Christian faith with a nationalist vision of America, often revealing open misogyny in its extreme elements, demanding a diminished role for women as voters and mothers while allowing them public positions with clear conditions.
In this context, femininity is primarily defined by external presentation and political allegiance, serving as a counterpoint to male hardness displayed in the movement. Conspicuously artificial enhancing measures reinforce this image, with individuals like Minister Noem and press secretary Karoline Leavitt styling themselves as public faces of the authoritarian project with make-up, cosmetic surgery, and overtly feminine clothing, often adorned with a cross necklace.
Predecessors of this right-wing femininity were evident in conservative circles even before Trump's rise to power, with notable examples such as former Governor of Alaska and Republican Vice Presidential candidate in 2008, Sarah Palin. Often seen in bold outfits, highly coiffed hair, and simultaneously aggressive in her political attacks, Palin espoused the "Pitbull in Lipstick" concept, embodying the perfect blend of femininity and tough stance.
Moreover, the image of women in Trump's government aligns closely with the conservative, predominantly white, evangelical, and non-college-educated female base that strongly supports him. They embody a distinct projection of political power through appearance and adhere to traditional and nostalgic values that his politics appeal to. The makeup and style choices—sometimes referred to as "Republican makeup"—serve as unspoken dress and beauty codes, reinforcing group solidarity.
However, exceptions to the rule of glamorous imagery prevailing in Trump's power circle exist. The most powerful woman in Trump's world is Susie Wiles, the Chief of Staff of the U.S. President. Wiles opts for a more subtle approach, favoring gray hair, minimal makeup, and understated pantsuits, staying away from Trump's favorite news channels and platforms such as Fox News or TikTok. Wiles represents the power behind the scenes while remaining out of the limelight.
Trump's team, male and female, continues to seek maximum attention and reach, ensuring visible recognition as part of the conservative team to outsiders. Recognition not only aid their visibility on social media but also play a vital role in identity formation, as Trump seems to favor this approach for his handpicked associates for the 2024 election.
- The Commission, inquired to propose a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, might consider including guidelines for individuals who frequently undergo cosmetic procedures, such as those in Trump's political circle, to safeguard their health from associated dangers.
- Despite the stylistic preferences of women in Trump's orbit being meticulously scrutinized, it is worth noting that the fashion-and-beauty industry could capitalize on this trend, creating products and services catering specifically to the "Mar-a-Lago Face" and the "Maga Look," thereby broadening their consumer base.
- Entertainment and media outlets could take this opportunity to explore the intersection of politics and lifestyle, addressing topics such as the influence of beauty ideals within the Trump administration on societal perceptions of femininity, as well as the potential long-term effects of these trends on self-image and self-worth among women.
